Prior to the policy of 1979, the levels of education were

Prior to the policy of 1979, the levels of education were

Options:
(a) 2
(b) 3
(c) 4
(d) 5

✅ Correct Option: (c) 4

Explanation (200+ words):

Before the Educational Policy of 1979, Pakistan’s education system was structured into four levels: primary, middle, secondary, and higher education. Primary education generally covered classes 1–5, middle education covered classes 6–8, secondary education included classes 9–10 leading to the Secondary School Certificate (SSC), and higher education included classes 11–12 (Intermediate) and university-level studies.

The four-level system aimed to provide a basic framework for student progression but faced challenges, including high dropout rates, low literacy, and limited access for rural and female students. Curriculum fragmentation and insufficient teacher training further hampered educational quality.

The 1979 policy later refined the system, introducing Islamic studies integration, vocational streams, and efforts to reduce disparities between rural and urban education. Understanding the pre-1979 four-level system is crucial for PPSC exams because it highlights the historical evolution of education in Pakistan, the challenges faced, and the rationale for subsequent reforms.

10 PPSC Facts:

  1. Four levels of education pre-1979: primary, middle, secondary, higher.
  2. Primary: classes 1–5.
  3. Middle: classes 6–8.
  4. Secondary: classes 9–10, SSC exam.
  5. Higher: classes 11–12, university studies.
  6. System faced high dropout rates.
  7. Limited access in rural areas.
  8. Female education was underrepresented.
  9. Curriculum was fragmented.
  10. Teacher training was insufficient.