Primary Education Backbone of National Development, Says Balochistan Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail

Quetta:Governor of Balochistan **Jaffar Khan Mandokhail** emphasized the critical role of **primary education** in national development, calling it the backbone of any country’s education system and the foundation of future academic success. He made these remarks while addressing a significant educational program organized at **BUITEMS University** on Friday, jointly held by **UNICEF** and the **Government of Norway**, focusing on primary, middle, and technical education in Balochistan.

Governor Mandokhail stated that by focusing on early education, Pakistan can significantly improve literacy rates, increase enrollment in higher education, and expand employment opportunities. However, he also acknowledged the unique challenges faced by Balochistan due to its vast geography and sparsely scattered population.

“Delivering basic facilities to every doorstep in such conditions is extremely difficult,” he said. “To turn our vision of an educated and developed Balochistan into reality, we urgently need support and guidance from developed nations and international organizations.”

During the event, which was attended by prominent figures including **UNICEF’s Provincial Head Maryam Darwish**, **BUITEMS Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Hafeez**, **University of Balochistan Vice Chancellor Dr. Zahoor Bazai**, **BUITEMS Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Mirwais Khan Kasi**, and **Palwasha Jalalzai**, the governor noted that **2.96 million children** in Balochistan are still out of school — a concerning statistic that reflects a significant portion of the population being deprived of their basic right to education.

He highlighted alarming issues in rural primary schools such as lack of infrastructure, absence of electricity, shortage of clean drinking water, and poor sanitation, which collectively hinder the learning environment and discourage parents from sending their children to school.

Governor Mandokhail appealed to all stakeholders, saying, “Every conscious individual in the world must recognize that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. It is our national responsibility to ensure no child in Balochistan is left behind due to a lack of basic facilities.”

He concluded with a hopeful note, calling for collective efforts to light the torch of knowledge and equip children with **quality education and modern skills**. At the end of the ceremony, he also distributed **certificates and gifts** among students.