The Punjab Education Department has issued a directive requiring all private schools in the province to provide free education to 10% of their enrolled students. This initiative specifically targets underprivileged children, those in financial need, and students with special needs, aiming to improve educational access and inclusivity across the region.
To ensure effective implementation, the department is reviving the Private Schools Ordinance 2014 and has instructed education officers at the district level to strictly monitor compliance. The regulation mandates that private institutions allocate a portion of their admissions to eligible students without charging any fees.
In line with this, the Ministry of Education has begun compiling lists of students who will benefit from the scheme. Private schools are required to submit complete admission records, including information on the students granted free education. This data collection process is expected to conclude by August 31, once the summer vacation period ends.
Punjab’s Education Minister, Rana Sikandar Hayat, stressed the importance of accountability, stating that all private schools will be monitored to ensure they fulfill their obligation. He made it clear that no institution will be allowed to sidestep the policy.
As part of broader efforts to support inclusive education, the minister also announced that Punjab will soon inaugurate its first autism-focused schools, dedicated to the learning needs of children with developmental challenges. These specialized institutions are expected to provide tailored support and promote equal educational opportunities for all.
The move marks a significant step toward making private education more accessible to marginalized communities and addressing long-standing disparities within the province’s education system.
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