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Impact of inflation on middle-class households and Education in Karachi

Anamta Chandio, Qanita Imtiaz*

Hamdard School of Law, Karachi, Pakistan


STEM Education Review 2026, 4(1),1-8; https://doi.org/10.67229/stemer.26080019
Submitted05 Feb 2026
Revised21 Feb 2026
Accepted08 Jun 2026
Published14 Sept 2026
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Cite This Article
(2026). Impact of inflation on middle-class households and Education in Karachi. STEM Education Review , 4(1), stemer26080019. https://doi.org/10.67229/stemer.26080019
Abstract

Inflation is a critical economic issue in Pakistan, particularly for middle-class families in Karachi. Rising prices of basic necessities such as food, fuel, electricity, transportation, and other commodities have reduced household purchasing power. At the same time, increasing school fees, book costs, uniforms, and other educational expenses have made it more difficult for families to maintain their standard of living and provide quality education for their children. Therefore, this research examines the impact of inflation on middle-class households and education in Karachi. This research paper attempts to determine the influence of inflation on middle-class families and education in Karachi. To achieve this goal, this research is intended to accomplish the following objectives such as  evaluate the effect of the price rise on spending and savings of families examine the impact of inflation on educational expenditure and quality education and investigate the challenges faced by the middle class due to inflation. This study will use a quantitative research design. The information was gathered via structured questionnaires which were given to middle-class families residing in Karachi through the method of sampling. The questionnaire contained closed-end questions about income, expenses, inflation, and costs of education. The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to determine the connection between inflation, financial situation, and education in these households. The results of this research shows inflation affects the financial conditions of middle-class families, also most people having trouble covering their expenses as inflation rises. Additionally, rising education expenses affect the accessibility of quality education; in particular, people spend less money on their education or choose cheaper options. Statistics have proved the presence of a connection between inflation and problems in financial situations that lead to poor education for the younger generation. Rising prices reduce purchasing power and increase the difficulty of meeting educational expenses. It is recommended that the government implement effective inflation-control measures, provide educational support programs, and introduce policies that reduce the economic burden on middle-class families.

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