Pakistan’s male literacy rate stood at 73.0%, while female literacy remained at 54.0%, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26 released on Thursday, 11 June 2026.
The figures show a major gender gap in education. They were recorded in the 2025 Population and Housing Census and included in the education chapter of the survey.
The gap means that men are still far more likely to be literate than women in Pakistan. This affects women’s access to jobs, higher education, digital skills, and financial independence.
The survey was released one day before the federal government presents the Budget 2026-27. Therefore, female education may become a key discussion point in the upcoming budget debate.
Gender gaps in literacy often reflect deeper issues. These include poverty, lack of nearby schools, early dropout rates, social barriers, and limited transport in some areas.
However, there was also one positive sign. The PM’s laptop scheme recorded 54% female participation as of April 2026. This shows that women can benefit strongly from targeted education and digital access programs.
Still, Pakistan needs more investment in girls’ education to close the literacy gap.
Note that literacy rate alone does not mean one’s intelligence level; there are males and females out there with the highest ever degrees, yet they are unable to comprehend simple logic, too narrow-minded and unwilling to use their studies to do good for people. Meanwhile, some uneducated people who may not have proper literacy still behave and think like a mature, humble person. Everyone who is reading this article must understand that it all depends on people and their nature. In today’s fast and modern world, the majority of people use their studies to harm surrounding and the country.