The Punjab government has ended free nursing education in its government colleges. Under a new policy issued by the Punjab Health Department, students will now have to pay tuition fees and other charges to continue their studies.
Previously, nursing students received a monthly stipend to support their education. The new policy removes this stipend, and students will also have to cover costs for government hostels. Officials say these changes are part of efforts to better manage resources in nursing colleges.
Eligibility criteria have been updated under the new system. Only candidates with at least 50 percent marks at the intermediate level will be eligible for admission. Additionally, applicants must hold a Punjab domicile to qualify for government nursing colleges.
Admission rules have also changed for specific institutions. At the Nursing College of Shahdara Teaching Hospital, seats will now be reserved exclusively for male students. Across Punjab, 3,100 seats are available for the morning shift, while 3,000 seats are allocated for the evening shift in government nursing colleges.
In colleges attached to teaching hospitals, 100 seats each are available for morning and evening shifts. Nursing colleges attached to district hospitals have 50 seats for each shift. The Health Department says these measures are designed to maintain academic standards and ensure quality in nursing education.
While the new policy aims to improve the quality of nursing education, it has raised concerns among students and families. Many relied on free education and stipends to pursue careers in nursing. Experts say the new fee structure may limit access for some students.
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Despite these concerns, officials believe the policy will strengthen the overall system of nursing education in Punjab. By focusing on eligible and qualified candidates, the government hopes to improve the standard of healthcare training and professional nursing services across the province.
