KPK Launches Free Travel for Female Students

Peshawar, April 2025 — In a historic and forward-thinking initiative, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) government has officially launched a free transport facility for female students, aimed at empowering girls through easier access to education. This policy is being widely praised as a game-changing move toward gender equality and increased female literacy in the province.

• Free transportation for all female students in public schools and colleges.

• This applies across urban and rural areas of KPK.

• Expected to benefit over 1 million girls across the province.

• Initiative rolled out under the "Access to Education" program.

• Aims to reduce school drop-out rates due to transportation issues.

• Special buses are dedicated solely to female students' safety and comfort.

• Part of KPK’s broader plan to promote women's empowerment.

The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has recognized that transportation remains a major hurdle for female students in continuing their education — especially in rural and remote areas. Many girls are forced to drop out due to unsafe or unaffordable travel.

With this initiative, the government is targeting:

• Higher female enrollment rates in schools and colleges.
  
  

• Reduced drop-out numbers, especially after middle school.
  
  

• Safer and more reliable commute for female students.
  
  

• A culture shift where education for girls is prioritized and encouraged.

The Current Challenges

• In many parts of KPK, girls walk several kilometers daily to reach school.

• A lack of secure and affordable public transport discourages families from sending their daughters to school.

• Cultural and societal barriers often reinforce these difficulties.
  
  

• Families are more willing to enroll and retain girls in school.

• Safer and punctual attendance for female students.

• Empowerment of girls through consistent access to education.

• A big boost for Pakistan’s overall literacy and development goals.

“This is not just a transport service—it’s a lifeline for thousands of girls who deserve a future built on education.”

“Free travel for girls will change mindsets. Parents will no longer fear for their daughter's safety on the way to school.”

With reduced logistical barriers, literacy rates among girls—especially in rural districts—are expected to rise rapidly.

cation remains the cornerstone of women's empowerment. Easier access to schools will encourage more girls to pursue secondary and higher education.

Educated women are more likely to join the workforce, start businesses, or contribute to their communities, uplifting entire regions.

“I used to walk 4 kilometers every day. Now I reach school fresh and on time. I’m so happy to be part of this change.”

“My parents had considered stopping my education because of the cost. This bus saved my future.”

This initiative is part of KPK’s broader education reforms which include:

• Establishing new girls’ schools and colleges.
  
  

• Hiring more female teachers, especially in rural areas.
  
  

• Providing free textbooks and school supplies.
  
  

• Enhancing digital learning opportunities for female students.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s free travel program for female students isn’t just a policy—it’s a promise to future generations. By removing one of the most significant obstacles to girls' education, the government is opening the door to a more equal, educated, and empowered Pakistan.

With the right execution and ongoing support, this initiative has the power to transform lives, communities, and the nation's destiny.