What were the basic aims of New Education Policy (1970
What were the basic aims of New Education Policy (1970)?
Options:
(a) Free enrolment up to class 10, stress on adults education, education for West Pakistan
(b) Free enrolment up to class 8, stress on boys & girls education, education for East Pakistan
(c) Free enrolment up to class 5, stress on girls education, education in rural areas, adults
(d) None
✅ Correct Option: (a) Free enrolment up to class 10, stress on adults education, education for West Pakistan)
Explanation (200+ words)
The New Education Policy of 1970 was introduced just before the general elections of 1970, during General Yahya Khan’s rule. The basic aims of this policy were to provide free enrollment up to Class 10, promote adult education, and establish a uniform system primarily targeting West Pakistan, as East Pakistan was already moving toward political separation.
The policy focused on removing educational inequalities, improving the quality of teachers, and modernizing curricula. Free schooling up to matriculation was seen as a major step toward expanding literacy and providing equal education opportunities to poor families. The government emphasized adult literacy because a large portion of the population was still illiterate, limiting Pakistan’s economic and social development.
The policy also aimed to standardize examinations, improve technical education, and expand rural schooling facilities. Although the policy had ambitious goals, its implementation was disrupted due to the political crisis of 1971, the separation of East Pakistan, and administrative instability. Despite its failure, the 1970 policy set important foundations for later reforms.
10 PPSC Facts
- Introduced in 1970 under Yahya Khan.
- Free education up to class 10 planned.
- Emphasis on adult literacy.
- Mainly designed for West Pakistan.
- Curriculum modernization proposed.
- Required major training programs for teachers.
- Aimed to reduce educational inequality.
- Focus on rural development included.
- Policy implementation disrupted by 1971 war.
- Laid groundwork for Education Policy 1972–80.