In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, public school students and teachers are facing serious difficulties due to a widespread shortage of textbooks as the academic year progresses. Despite the government’s long-standing policy of providing free textbooks at the beginning of each school year, many students are still without key materials, even though the session began in early April.
For over 20 years, KP students have received government-issued textbooks without cost. However, rising printing expenses—now exceeding Rs10 billion—prompted a shift in policy two years ago. Authorities decided to supply only half of the required new books, instructing schools to collect used books from promoted students to meet the shortfall.
This year, the situation has worsened. While the KP Textbook Board insists it printed and delivered all 34 million books requested by the education department, teachers report major gaps in supply—particularly in grades 6 through 10. A high school teacher in Peshawar noted that, for a class of over 40 students, only five copies of Physics and 15 of Biology textbooks were available. Many students are forced to buy textbooks from markets, where they are easily available but costly.
The shortage of returned old books and incorrect student data further strained the distribution system. Many of the old books collected were either missing or damaged beyond use.
According to the School Officers Association, a growing number of teachers are urging the government to either ensure timely delivery of textbooks or end the free-book policy entirely and allow parents to purchase them directly. In classrooms, teachers are encouraging students to share textbooks, but this workaround falls short for those trying to complete homework or prepare for exams.
While education officials blame logistical missteps and poor coordination, school staff and students continue to bear the brunt of an avoidable crisis that risks undermining academic progress.
