IMPACT OF EDUCATION ON FOOD SECURITY IN RURAL PAKISTAN

Abstract

Education and food security are pillars of national development. Education builds human capital, raises income potential, and increases awareness of health and nutrition, all of which contribute to improved food security. This study aims to evaluate household food security status in rural Pakistan and to examine the impact of education levels (Basic, Secondary, and Higher) on food security in rural Pakistan. The study utilizes data from 15,737 rural households obtained from the Household Integrated Economic Survey (HIES) 2018–2019, while the Food Consumption Table (FCT) of Pakistan is used to estimate calorie intake. Food security was measured through the caloric intake method, with households consuming at least 2550 kcal per adult equivalent per day considered food secure. To determine the impact of education on household food security, a logistic regression model is utilized. Results show that 39.32% of rural households are food insecure. Logistic regression analysis reveals that Basic education negatively affects food security, while Secondary and Higher education have positive impacts, with Higher education showing the strongest effect. Control variables from categories such as household head characteristics, household characteristics, household economic factors, basic life necessities, and regional characteristics are also included to isolate the effect of education on household food security. Considering the findings, the government should improve basic education with practical skills and health awareness, expand schools in rural areas, support secondary and higher education through scholarships, and promote the value of education with community engagement and technology to improve food security.