What was the target of adding new schools in first five year Plan?
What was the target of adding new schools in first five year Plan?
Options:
(a) 3000
(b) 4000
(c) 5000
(d) 6000
✅ Correct Option: (b) 4000
Explanation (200+ words)
The First Five-Year Plan targeted the establishment of 4000 new primary schools across Pakistan. At the time, literacy rates were extremely low (about 16%), and rural areas had severe shortages of educational institutions. The government recognized that without rapid expansion of basic schooling, it would be impossible to create a skilled and educated population capable of supporting national growth.
The target of 4000 schools was ambitious considering the economic and administrative limitations of the newly formed state. The plan prioritized rural communities to reduce educational inequality and ensure that children—especially those living in remote areas—received basic learning opportunities. Establishing new schools also required building infrastructure, hiring trained teachers, and ensuring availability of textbooks, which the government attempted to address through teacher training programs and curriculum reforms.
Despite the ambitious target, the government managed to achieve only partial success by the end of the plan due to financial shortages. However, the 4000-school target was important as it marked the first structured attempt to expand educational access in Pakistan. It also set the tone for future education planning, highlighting the vital role of primary education in nation-building and economic development.
10 PPSC-Relevant Facts
- Target: 4000 new primary schools.
- Focus: rural areas.
- Primary education viewed as foundation for development.
- Part of Pakistan’s first national education strategy.
- Teacher training programs introduced alongside expansion.
- Curriculum improvements planned for new schools.
- Lack of funds prevented full achievement.
- Administrative problems slowed school construction.
- Literacy rate at the time was only around 16%.
- Plan strengthened future educational planning capacity.