In five year Plan 1978–83, what was the major step proposed for primary education?
In five year Plan 1978–83, what was the major step proposed for primary education?
(a) 33% of development expenditure
(b) 33 to 45% increase in girls education
(c) 35% literacy rate
(d) Both a & b
✅ Correct Option: (d) Both a & b
Explanation (200+ words):
The Five-Year Plan (1978–83) focused heavily on primary education because earlier plans had failed to address the huge gap in school enrollment, especially for girls. The plan proposed two major steps: (a) allocating 33% of total development expenditure to primary education and (b) increasing girls’ enrollment by 33% to 45%. Together, these measures aimed to reduce disparities in access to education and improve the national literacy rate.
The emphasis on girls’ education reflected international trends and UNESCO recommendations. Improving girls’ enrollment was expected to increase female literacy, maternal health awareness, and overall family welfare. Research shows that educating women leads to better economic participation and healthier families.
Increasing development expenditure on primary education was also crucial. During previous plans (1955–60, 1960–65, 1965–70), primary education had received limited resources, resulting in poor infrastructure and teacher shortages. The 1978–83 plan attempted to correct this imbalance by prioritizing primary schooling for the first time on a national scale.
10 PPSC-Relevant Facts:
- 33% budget allocation was the highest for primary education so far.
- Girls’ enrollment target increased up to 45%.
- Plan aimed to reduce gender disparity.
- Literacy improvement was tied to national development goals.
- UNESCO recommended primary education as a priority sector.
- The plan followed Zia-ul-Haq’s education reform vision.
- Previous plans had neglected primary schooling.
- Rural community participation programs were introduced.
- The plan expanded mosque schools.
- Teacher training improvements were also proposed.