Integration of new officials and policy reforms aim to drive efficiency and accountability for better citizen outcomes
Pakistan faces a severe economic crisis, with significant challenges in its health and education sectors. The healthcare infrastructure comprises 1,201 hospitals, 5,518 basic health units, 683 rural health centres, and other facilities, totaling 123,394 beds. Despite this, 50% of the population lacks access to primary healthcare, and 42% have no health insurance. This highlights the urgent need for reforms to improve healthcare accessibility and quality.
In education, the 2021-23 Pakistan Economic Survey reveals 11.35 million students in pre-primary education, 25 million in primary education, 8.75 million in middle education, 4.5 million in secondary education, and 2.5 million in higher education. There are 313,418 schools, with 56.2% public and 43.8% private. However, 26.2 million children are out of school, representing 39% of the school-going age group. Government expenditure on education was only 1.9744% of GDP in 2022, while health received 1.4% of GDP, indicating a dire need for increased investment and policy reform in both sectors.
The current system in Pakistan is marred by bureaucratic and political interests, leading to corruption and inefficiencies. Appointing provincial assembly members or ruling party candidates as coordinators of hospitals in Punjab exacerbates corruption.
Suggestions
An incentive-based approach, focusing on development models with reduced political and bureaucratic involvement, is proposed as a solution. However, without systemic changes, officials might exploit the new system, continuing corruption and disrupting services.
To adopt the incentive approach, recruiting new officials with integrity is crucial. Enhancing transparency through a robust monitoring system and introducing corruption-free teams is essential. Continuous training and development programs for officials can maintain high ethical standards. Utilizing technology for monitoring and reporting can further reduce corruption opportunities.
Engaging civil society and the public in oversight can enhance transparency and trust in the system. A hybrid approach combining incentive and administrative strategies is recommended to enhance productivity and facilities by integrating officials focused on integrity.
Recruiting new officials should prioritise integrity and public service commitment. Training programs should update officials on best practices and ethical standards, while mentorship can guide new recruits. A comprehensive monitoring system, including regular audits, real-time data tracking, and public reporting, should be developed. Specialized corruption-free teams should oversee high-risk areas independently of local political influences. Advanced technology solutions like blockchain for transparent record-keeping and AI for detecting financial anomalies should be implemented to reduce corruption opportunities.
Incentive-based strategies should include performance bonuses and recognition programs for officials and departments meeting or exceeding targets in healthcare and education outcomes. Development funds should be allocated for innovative projects proposed by local officials, incentivising creative solutions to local problems. Policy reforms should reduce bureaucratic red tape and streamline processes in healthcare and education. Strict accountability measures, including regular performance reviews and disciplinary actions for misconduct, should be implemented. Encouraging government-private sector partnerships can leverage additional resources and expertise.
Public engagement and oversight are crucial for success. Local communities should be involved in decision-making to ensure services meet their needs. Transparency initiatives should make healthcare and education service information publicly available, including budgets, performance metrics, and project outcomes. Feedback mechanisms should allow the public to provide input and report issues, ensuring their voices are heard and addressed.
Looking forward
Long-term measures should include increasing government expenditure on healthcare and education to at least 4% of GDP for each sector, investing in healthcare and educational infrastructure in underserved areas, and building local institutions’ capacity to manage and deliver services effectively. Continuous policy advocacy should ensure healthcare and education remain government priorities. Partnerships with international organisations can provide additional resources, expertise, and best practices.
Adopting a holistic approach combining immediate actions with long-term strategies can improve Pakistan’s healthcare and education sectors, leading to better outcomes and quality of life for its citizens. By integrating new officials, emphasizing transparency, and engaging civil society, Pakistan can build a more efficient, accountable, and effective system that meets its population’s needs and drives the country toward a brighter future.
The Author is student at University of Sargodha