Sindh Govt Plans Route-Based Transport for Girls’ Schools

The Government of Sindh has decided to introduce a route-based rental transport facility for girls enrolled in secondary and higher secondary schools to improve access to education in rural and underserved areas.

Officials from the Sindh School Education Department said the initiative aims to reduce dropout rates by addressing transportation challenges faced by female students.

Addressing Barriers to Girls’ Education

Authorities noted that education is a constitutional right under Article 25-A of the Constitution of Pakistan and the Sindh Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2013.

However, the lack of safe and reliable transport remains a major barrier for girls, particularly in rural districts.

The proposed service will provide safe commuting options, helping to ease parental safety concerns and encourage families to keep their daughters in school.

Improving Attendance and Learning Outcomes

Officials said the transport facility is expected to improve attendance, punctuality, and learning outcomes among female students.

The initiative will also support the regular attendance of female teachers working in remote areas.

Focus on High-Dropout Districts

In its first phase, the programme will focus on districts with higher dropout rates, including:

• Umerkot
• Badin
• Jamshoro
• Larkana
• Shaheed Benazirabad
• Ghotki
• Malir

Officials said these areas were selected due to significant challenges related to girls’ school attendance.

Linked to Education Development Goals

The initiative aligns with the Sindh Education Sector Plan 2019–2024 and the Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all.

Authorities said the transport programme will complement ongoing efforts to expand education infrastructure and improve school access across the province.