by: Syeda Sonia Munawar
To improve the quality of education, it is crucial to equip teachers with modern training so they can provide the best learning to students. Until teachers are trained according to modern educational requirements, they will remain unable to effectively teach. Some female teachers suffer from psychological issues that hinder their ability to teach properly. Many female teachers in government schools face not only professional challenges but also mental health and marital issues due to stress. Low salaries, lack of resources, student absenteeism, lack of parental cooperation, and unnecessary interference by higher authorities disturb their mental peace. This stress often manifests at home as irritability, unrest, and marital tension. Many female teachers face dual pressure from home and work, which affects not only their personal happiness but also their teaching performance. Teachers dealing with mental stress cannot focus effectively on students’ education.
The condition of female teachers in Pakistan’s schools is a serious issue that deeply affects the education system. These teachers frequently face numerous challenges and struggle to make ends meet in this era of inflation, despite being expected to manage the entire system. Yet, with dedication and effort, they continue to educate children. In rural areas, female teachers in government schools face serious commuting issues. Schools are often located in places without public transport, forcing women to either walk long distances or use expensive transport. They also face security concerns, especially in areas where it is unsafe for women to travel alone.
Lack of basic facilities in educational institutions, such as clean drinking water, toilets, and proper classrooms, makes it even harder for female teachers to work. Sometimes they are required to teach multiple classes at once, affecting both their mental and physical health. Despite all this, the government does not provide them the benefits they deserve.
All these issues highlight that female teachers in Pakistan not only handle teaching duties but also face administrative and societal challenges. If the government wants to improve the education sector, it must prioritize the welfare of female teachers. By providing better salaries, protection, travel facilities, and improved work environments, the education system can be strengthened.
Moreover, female teachers in government schools also face serious issues like harassment, which causes them mental distress and fear. At times, male colleagues, senior officers, or even local people exhibit inappropriate behaviour or make indecent remarks. If they attempt to file complaints, they often face further pressure, retaliation, or defamation. In rural areas, the situation is worse, with no effective complaint systems or legal protection. These incidents leave many women performing their duties with a constant sense of insecurity, damaging both their performance and self-respect.
