Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a comprehensive overhaul of the education sector, introducing a series of initiatives to enhance school infrastructure, faculty quality, and overall learning standards across the province.
CM Education Card and Academic Incentives
A major highlight of the reform plan is the introduction of the CM Education Card, aimed at providing essential facilities to students in government schools. Additionally, to encourage academic excellence, students achieving over 80% marks will be awarded the CM Eminence/Star Card, recognizing their hard work and dedication.
Expanding Access to Education
Addressing the challenge of out-of-school children, the chief minister has set an ambitious goal of enrolling two million children annually. To support student well-being and boost school attendance, she has also directed the immediate implementation of a school meal program in districts such as Bhakkar and Layyah, ensuring that students receive nutritious meals during school hours.
Impact of the Public School Reorganization Program
Punjab’s Public School Reorganization Program has already begun showing impressive results. Since its implementation, student enrollment has surged by 52%, rising from 242,000 to 368,000. The number of teachers in outsourced schools has also increased significantly—by 89%—while their salaries have tripled, making the profession more attractive and sustainable.
Infrastructure development has been another major focus of the reforms. The government has constructed 35 new classrooms, renovated 459 existing ones, and built 110 new toilets while upgrading 2,762 others to improve sanitation. Schools have also been equipped with modern computer labs, additional furniture, improved boundary walls, and upgraded water supply systems, creating a more conducive learning environment.
Introduction of Technical Education and Language Programs
In a significant step towards modernizing the education system, the Punjab government has introduced technical education as a compulsory subject from Grade 5 onwards. A state-of-the-art lab for Matric Tech students will be established, and new vocational courses in agriculture, fashion design, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) will be integrated into the matriculation curriculum.
Recognizing the importance of English proficiency in today’s world, a pilot project for English conversation classes has been launched in 338 schools across Lahore. Additionally, the government is finalizing an agreement to provide internationally certified English language courses in public schools, ensuring that students are better prepared for global opportunities.
Strengthening Administration and Teaching Workforce
To improve governance and accountability, the government has completed the appointment process for 287 CEOs, DEOs, and education officers across Punjab. Moreover, under the School Teacher Internship Program, 12,500 interns will be recruited to strengthen the teaching workforce.
For the first time in Punjab’s history, the government has ensured that textbooks were delivered on time at the start of the academic year in March, resolving a long-standing issue that had previously affected public schools.
Five-Year Development Plan for Education
Looking ahead, the Punjab government has outlined an ambitious five-year development plan to further strengthen the education system. The plan includes the construction of 30,000 new classrooms, 600 elementary schools, and 400 high schools, significantly expanding educational facilities. Additionally, the government is actively involving school alumni to support infrastructure development, including new school grounds, buildings, and classrooms.
A Transformative Vision for Education in Punjab
Maryam Nawaz’s education reforms mark a transformative shift in Punjab’s schooling system, focusing on accessibility, quality, and innovation. With strategic investments in technical education, school infrastructure, and teacher recruitment, the province is poised to create a more inclusive and progressive learning environment.
As these initiatives take shape, Punjab’s education sector is set to witness a new era of excellence, ensuring that future generations receive the skills and opportunities they deserve.
