Punjab CM Launches Public Schools Reorganisation Programme

In a significant move aimed at transforming the educational landscape of Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched the Public Schools Reorganisation Programme. This initiative is designed not only to save a staggering Rs40 billion but also to create job opportunities for around 70,000 educated youth. The program will see 14,000 out of the province's 49,000 schools managed through public-private partnerships, with an initial phase outsourcing 5,800 schools.

During the inauguration ceremony held in Lahore, the Chief Minister made it clear that the Punjab government will maintain strict oversight of the program. She firmly rejected allegations from critics who claim that the initiative is merely a way to hand over schools to private contractors. Instead, she emphasized that the government will ensure all monitoring and supervision is conducted effectively.

Maryam Nawaz also announced plans to expand educational opportunities by establishing kindergarten schools in districts beyond Lahore. The event saw her distributing licenses for the Public Schools Reorganisation Programme to various stakeholders, including three sisters from Dera Ghazi Khan and representatives from the charity organization Muslim Hands.

In her address, the Chief Minister did not shy away from addressing past issues, accusing the former PTI education minister of engaging in a billion-rupee corruption scandal related to the reduction of textbook sizes. She called on the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to investigate these claims, highlighting a broader narrative of corruption and nepotism that she attributes to the previous government’s five-year tenure.

Maryam Nawaz assured the public that the outsourcing of schools would be conducted on a merit-based system. She also highlighted the recruitment of visiting faculty to improve English language instruction, which is crucial in today’s globalized world. Under this new program, all schools will be upgraded to include classes from five to eight, with a strong focus on nurturing children’s talents.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister expressed her commitment to enhancing sports in government schools and promised to provide transport facilities for girls’ educational institutions. She stated, “The Public Schools Reorganization Program is not a business venture but a sacred responsibility to provide quality education.” This sentiment underscores her belief that children from government schools possess the same potential as those attending private institutions.

Maryam Nawaz noted that many well-known school chains have shown interest in participating in the program, which is expected to lead to significant improvements in school infrastructure and resources. Addressing safety concerns, she announced plans for zebra crossings near schools and stricter regulations on transportation to ensure the safety of students.

In addition to these initiatives, the Chief Minister discussed the Early School Education initiative, which aims to address the lack of facilities for underprivileged children. She introduced a school nutrition program in South Punjab to combat malnutrition, ensuring that children receive the necessary support for their growth and development.

To further support students, Maryam Nawaz announced the launch of a laptop scheme for merit-based students and a scholarship program worth Rs. 25 billion. This initiative aims to assist those who cannot afford university fees, ensuring that no child is deprived of education due to financial constraints.

The event was attended by key officials, including Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat and the Managing Director of the Punjab Education Foundation, Shahid Fareed, who spoke about the program’s goals and objectives. As Punjab embarks on this ambitious educational reform, it is clear that the government is taking steps to ensure that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background. This initiative not only aims to uplift the educational standards in the province but also seeks to empower the youth, paving the way for a brighter future for all.