LAHORE: The Punjab government vowed to enrol two million students in public schools in the new academic year during a campaign launched on Thursday.

Punjab Minister for School and Higher Education Rana Sikandar Hayat and Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman were chief guests at the ceremony held at Government APS Shuhada High School Model Town on Thursday to mark the completion of the first year of the reforms in the education sector of the province.

During the ceremony, the chief guests awarded laptops and special prizes to students who showed exceptional performance in STEM competitions and other academic contests.

Mr Hayat highlighted the progress made in the education sector and stated that the past year was a testament to determination, hard work, and success and they had laid the foundation for an educational revolution.

Launches health insurance for teachers

He said that they would further strengthen this foundation in the coming years for bringing about reforms in the sector.

Mr Hayat claimed that all promises made to the students and teachers were fulfilled and they were visible in tangible, on-ground achievements. Mr Zaman underscored the government’s commitment to providing top-quality educational facilities. “Our priority is to align the education sector with modern demands and ensure that teachers and students have access to the best resources,” he said.

Mr Hayat announced plans for the upcoming academic year, including a target to enrol two million children.

He also announced a health insurance policy for teachers and elimination of their additional duties.

The minister highlighted the success of initiatives like the Digital Safar Programme and Google for Education, which has equipped thousands of young individuals with essential skills. Additionally, modern smart classrooms have been established in schools across the province.

He also shared encouraging results from the outsourcing of schools, noting a significant improvement in enrollment rates.

He said technical education has been introduced for the first time in Punjab, with the Matric Tech Programme set to launch in the new academic year.

The ceremony was attended by parliamentarians, administrative secretaries of the education department and a large number of teachers and students, reflecting the collective commitment to transforming Punjab’s education system.

Published in Dawn, February 28th, 2025