In a significant step towards strengthening the province’s education system, the Sindh Education Department has announced the upgradation of 2,000 primary schools across the province.
The decision, formally confirmed through a notification, is expected to make education more accessible for thousands of children who previously had to discontinue studies after completing the fifth grade.
Education Beyond Grade Five
Sindh Education Minister Sardar Ali Shah explained that the move is meant to give children in rural and semi-urban areas the chance to continue their studies without having to travel long distances to middle or secondary schools. “Our aim is simple,” he said, “no child should be forced to drop out just because the next school is too far away.”
Schools Upgraded Across Divisions
According to official data, the 2,000 upgraded schools are spread across the province:
• Hyderabad division: 496 schools
• Shaheed Benazirabad division: 406 schools
• Mirpurkhas division: 244 schools
• Sukkur division: 341 schools
• Larkana division: 490 schools
• Karachi division: 56 schools
Education experts note that although Karachi has fewer upgraded schools in this phase, rural divisions have been prioritized where access to post-primary education is the most difficult.
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A Larger Vision: 10,000 Upgraded Schools
Minister Shah emphasized that this initiative is just the first step in a larger vision. The Sindh government plans to upgrade a total of 10,000 primary and elementary schools in phases.
“We are beginning with 2,000 schools now, but our commitment is to gradually expand this number until every community has a nearby school where children can continue their education up to at least grade eight,” he said.
Financial Autonomy for Headmasters
Besides upgradation, the government has also empowered school headmasters by granting them direct financial authority to use funds for day-to-day requirements. This measure, officials say, is going to help schools resolve small but critical issues—such as repair work, classroom supplies, and maintenance—without waiting months for approval from higher authorities.
Education as a Long-Term Investment
Observers have welcomed the decision, noting that expanding access to middle-level education is highly imperative to reducing dropout rates in Sindh. Many children, particularly girls, are unable to continue their studies when secondary schools are too far from home. By upgrading local schools, the government is expected to significantly improve retention rates.
The initiative is the clear manifestation of the provincial government’s recognition that education is the core center for promoting development and growth. As Minister Shah put it, “Investing in schools is investing in Sindh’s future.”