Pakistan’s literacy rate has risen to 63%, according to the latest education statistics for 2024–25, indicating progress in reading and writing skills across the country. However, significant differences remain between men and women and between urban and rural populations.
The data show that male literacy stands at 73%, while the female literacy rate is 54%. The gap highlights the continued need to improve girls’ access to education and support women’s learning opportunities.
Punjab recorded the country’s highest provincial literacy rate at 68%. Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa both reported 58%, while Balochistan had the lowest rate at 49%.
The figures also reveal a considerable urban-rural divide. Literacy stands at 74% in urban areas, compared with 55% in rural areas, showing that access to education remains uneven across communities.
Although the increase is a positive development, the figures underline the need for sustained efforts to improve educational access, reduce gender disparities and strengthen learning opportunities in underserved areas.
Expanding school access, supporting girls’ education and improving educational facilities will remain important steps toward raising literacy levels across Pakistan.
