Despite the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s declaration of an ‘education emergency’, conditions at a primary school in Tangu Manz, Rabat Dara, Lower Dir, tell a different story. Over 700 students are enrolled, yet most are forced to study under the open sky due to just four classrooms and a shortage of teachers and basic facilities.
Social activist Daim Shah, during a visit on Saturday, told journalists that students lacked proper seating, clean drinking water, and toilets. “Children suffer under the scorching sun and freezing cold. The slogan of ‘Literate Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’ is hollow,” he said, urging the government to act or face protests.
Deputy district education officer Fayyazuddin admitted the school was overcrowded and said no new grants had been issued in recent years. District education officer Inayatullah confirmed that a request for more classrooms was sent but awaits funding approval.
In a separate development, the All-Pakistan Clerks Association (APCA) announced a sit-in in Islamabad on June 10 to demand improved working conditions. APCA leaders visited Lower Dir to mobilize local support. The district’s government employees are expected to participate in the protest outside Parliament House.
