What was the vacancy rate at higher secondary level in NEC report 2006?

What was the vacancy rate at higher secondary level in NEC report 2006? (a) 1.2% (b) 6.7% (c) 9.3% (d) 6.5% ✅ Correct option: (a) 1.2% Explanation (200+ words) According to the National Education Census (NEC) 2005–06, the vacancy rate at the higher secondary level in Pakistan was 1.2%, which was the lowest among all levels of education. This low vacancy rate reflects the relatively better staffing situation at higher secondary institutions compared to primary and basic education levels. Higher secondary schools are fewer in number and are generally located in urban or semi-urban areas, making them more attractive postings for qualified teachers. These institutions also offer better service structure, higher pay scales, and subject-specialized positions, which reduces the likelihood of vacant posts. In contrast, primary and basic education levels face higher vacancy rates due to rural postings, difficult living conditions, and limited incentives. NEC data highlighted that teacher shortages were a major issue at lower levels, not at higher secondary level. This statistic is frequently asked in PPSC exams because it shows how teacher deployment varies by level of education and how resource allocation favors higher education tiers. 10 PPSC-Relevant Facts 1. NEC conducted in 2005–06 2. Vacancy rate = unfilled sanctioned posts 3. Higher secondary had lowest vacancy 4. Urban posting reduces vacancies 5. Subject specialists prefer higher levels 6. Primary level suffers most shortages 7. Teacher availability affects quality 8. Staffing data used in planning 9. NEC is authoritative source 10. Teacher statistics often tested in PPSC