Rising Enrollments Put Pressure on Islamabad’s Public Schools

APP

Islamabad: Islamabad’s government schools are facing unprecedented pressure as enrollments surge, driven by a growing population and families’ increasing preference for public education. While the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) acknowledges the challenge, officials point to ongoing reforms aimed at expanding facilities and improving access.

According to FDE, more than 200,000 students are currently enrolled across 423 public schools and colleges in the capital.

With Islamabad’s population expanding from just 800,000 in 1998 to over two million today, many classrooms now seat 40 or more children—well above the international benchmark of 30 students per class.

For parents, the choice is often shaped by financial constraints as well as faith in public institutions. “Private schools are charging up to Rs. 30,000 a month. For families like ours, government schools are the only choice.

At least our children get proper teachers and basic facilities here,” said Nadeem Khan, a resident of G-9.

Others highlight the strain overcrowding puts on students. “Teachers are hardworking, but weaker children don’t get the attention they need in such large classes. The government must open more sections in popular schools,” urged Saima Bibi, a mother from I-8.

Transport Boosts Attendance—And Enrollment

A major factor behind the surge in admissions is the school transport system introduced under the Prime Minister’s Education Reforms Programme. Since 2017, the FDE has received 200 buses, including a dedicated “Pink Bus Service” with 22 vehicles for students and staff. Today, more than 90 percent of the fleet is operational.

For parents like Muhammad Imran from Bhara Kahu, this has been a game-changer. “Earlier, I could not afford daily transport for my children. Now, with the school bus, I send all three without worrying about safety or cost,” he said.

While the bus service has eased mobility and promoted attendance, it has also fueled further demand for limited classroom space.

Response and Reforms

Officials argue that significant steps are being taken to address the pressure. “The Prime Minister’s Education Reforms Programme has upgraded dozens of schools with new classrooms, labs, and furniture.

The government is committed to ensuring every child in Islamabad gets quality education,” said a senior government educationist.

Teachers, too, acknowledge both the challenges and improvements. “We have more students in one room now, but conditions are far better than a few years ago. At least children have proper desks, electricity, and books. With more recruitment and classrooms, things will improve further,” noted a federal school teacher in I-10.

Experts Call for Long-Term Planning

Education experts believe the issue is structural and demands foresight. “Overcrowding is a natural outcome of urban migration. Islamabad has the resources and governance structure to respond, but new schools and teacher appointments must keep pace with population growth,” they stressed.

The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Education has already directed the FDE to create additional classrooms in high-demand areas and recruit more teachers. Officials say proposals are being finalized for the next development cycle.

A System Under Strain, Yet Trusted

Despite overcrowding, Islamabad’s public schools remain the first choice for thousands of families who view them as both affordable and dependable.

Parents and teachers alike hope that sustained investment and smarter planning will turn today’s challenge into an opportunity to build a stronger education system for the capital’s future generations.