Education & Matrimony

How many children in Pakistan are out of school?

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Answer

Direct answer

UNICEF currently estimates that 25.1 million children aged 5–16 in Pakistan are out of school, representing about 35% of that age group. It describes Pakistan as having one of the world’s largest out-of-school populations and highlights slow progress in enrollment and retention. The estimate covers children who are not attending school, not merely those absent temporarily. It should be kept separate from older PSLM figures because source dates and methods differ.

25.1mchildren aged 5–16 out of school
35%estimated out-of-school share
Evidence

Sources used

International Organization · 2026

Education in Pakistan

UNICEF Pakistan

UNICEF context for out-of-school children, access gaps and gender/province differences in education.View source
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