Federal minister opens 100 new schools in Karachi

 By: Aziz Khatri

KARACHI: Federal Education and Vocational Training Minister Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui inaugurated 100 formal schools under the Directorate General of Basic Education Community Schools, marking a crucial step in expanding education access in Karachi.  

In his speech, Dr. Siddiqui emphasized the significant inequality in Karachi. He pointed out that although Karachi is the wealthiest city in Pakistan, contributing 97% of Sindh’s income and 60% of the federal income, the majority of its poor residents receive very little assistance. This aid is often restricted to basic items such as mats and books.

He credited the success to “right-minded stakeholders,” and portrayed it as a collective effort rather than the work of any single authority. Dr. Siddiqui also criticized constitutional amendments that stripped Sindh province of certain educational rights, further harming Karachi’s children.

Pointing to systemic inequalities, he remarked that while wheat is allocated for 35 million people, Karachi’s official population is only recorded as 15 million, underscoring the urgent need for fair representation and resources for the city’s youth.

Director General Hamid Khan Niazi emphasized the importance of these new schools in providing meaningful educational opportunities across the city.

Together, the minister and DG Niazi framed this initiative as a vital step to address historical neglect and invest in Karachi’s children’s future.