Education is the cornerstone of personal development, guiding individuals to distinguish between right and wrong. It is a beacon of empowerment that every individual deserves. Of utmost importance is women's education, as it opens doors to countless opportunities across various fields. Recognizing that females play a pivotal role in the development of society, the nation, and the country as a whole, investing in their education is not just beneficial but imperative.
In Balochistan, accessibility to education for women remains a challenge, with only a meagre 27% of women being literate—a statistic that ranks among the lowest in the world. Regrettably, many Baloch women spend their lives confined to domestic chores due to limited or no exposure to education. Cultural norms and traditional beliefs have contributed to this disparity, perpetuating the misconception that women's roles are solely within the confines of their homes.
It is evident that women's education in Balochistan has not received the attention it urgently requires. Numerous girls are still denied access to education, with the overall literacy rate in the region standing at a disheartening 43.58 percent. Early and forced marriages remain a primary obstacle, robbing young girls of their right to education. Makran, a division within Balochistan, faces the highest prevalence of early marriages, perpetuating the cycle of gender inequality and depriving girls of their educational opportunities.
The situation is dire, particularly in rural areas, where less than 2 percent of females are literate. While the state of male education is marginally better with a literacy rate of 38 percent, female literacy lags far behind at just 13 percent. Shockingly, a staggering 83 percent of girls in Balochistan are not in school, painting a grim picture of the gender education gap in the province.
It is high time for the Baloch nation to prioritize education for all, irrespective of gender. We must unite to create a future where both men and women have equal access to education and opportunities. As the saying goes, "When you educate a man, you educate an individual; when you educate a woman, you educate a nation." The development of our nation hinges on the education of our women. Therefore, I urge the families of Balochistan to support and encourage higher education for females, as it is not just a matter of equality but a pathway to a brighter future for us all.