Implementation Gaps in Educational Policies of Pakistan: Critical Analysis of Problems and Way Forward
Iqbal Ahmad, Muhammad Rauf, Imdadullah, Alam Zeb

Abstract
This paper investigates the main causes for poor implementation of educational policies in Pakistan. For this purpose the paper investigated vast literature. The review of literature revealed that lack of continuity in successive government policies, corruption, inadequate financial allocations, lack of training for human resource, lack of visionary leadership, lack of political will on the part of successive governments, poor follow ups, poor monitoring system, poor policy evaluations, centralized approach in implementation, lack of political stability and decaying institutional disciplines are the main causes that have plagued the process of educational policy implementation in Pakistan. On the basis of this critical analysis the study concludes that although the regularly stated policy goals in Pakistani education are sublime and ideal, yet, due to the above identified reasons coupled by weak institutional structures and frequent political interventions, the policies remain unfulfilled and do not achieve the desired results. In the light of this deep investigation, the paper recommends some practical solutions to poor policy implementation in the country. Firstly, that policy makers and policy implementers are needed to be taken on board before, during and after the policy formulation, implementation and policy evaluation stages. This will generate commitment, strong will, motivation and strong individual and institutional support for the implementation of the policies. Secondly, that increased budgetary allocation for educational projects may also improve the process of implementation if it is carried out with professional fervor, professionalism and commitment by showing zero tolerance to corruption in all forms.

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