Chief Minister (CM) Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled plans to outsource around 14,000 government schools under the Public Schools Reorganisation Programme (PSRP). In the first phase of this initiative, 5,800 schools are set to be outsourced, marking a significant step in the reorganization of Punjab’s education system.
“We are personally overseeing the monitoring and supervision,” stated CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif during the inauguration of the Public Schools Reorganization Program. She highlighted that with 50,000 schools in the province, ensuring full-time supervision of each one is a challenge. However, by outsourcing, those involved will now work alongside the Punjab government to ensure educational standards are maintained.
CM Maryam further emphasized the financial benefits of the program, which is projected to save Rs. 40 billion. Additionally, the initiative will create employment opportunities for 70,000 educated youth. Following the success of this project in Lahore, she announced plans to expand kindergarten schools to other districts.
At the inauguration ceremony, licenses were distributed under the PSRP. Among the recipients were three sisters from Dera Ghazi Khan, the Akhut Foundation, and Muslim Hands, highlighting the inclusivity of the program.
The CM assured that the outsourcing process was conducted with complete transparency and merit. She noted that the curriculum will continue to be provided by the Punjab government, and strict monitoring will ensure quality education across all schools. “This is not a business venture but a sacred duty,” she remarked, stressing the importance of maintaining high educational standards.
Under the program, schools will be upgraded to provide education from five to eight classes, with a focus on uncovering children’s hidden talents. “We aim to bring forth the sporting talent in government schools and offer transport facilities for girls attending educational institutions,” she added.
CM Maryam addressed concerns raised by critics, refuting claims that schools were being handed over to contractors without oversight. She reaffirmed that the outsourcing process was rooted in public-private partnership and aimed at addressing longstanding issues in the educational sector.
Further improvements, including upgraded facilities like labs, building renovations, and enhanced cleanliness, are expected under the PSRP. CM Maryam highlighted issues such as broken windows in the winter and non-functional fans in the summer, which the program aims to resolve.
In an effort to improve safety, zebra crossings will be established near schools, and dedicated staff will be assigned to help children cross roads safely. Additionally, the Punjab government has imposed a ban on transport vehicles operating without fitness certificates or indulging in overloading, further ensuring the safety of students.
Despite the challenges, CM Maryam expressed optimism about the future of education in Punjab, noting that the condition of schools in the province is still better compared to other regions. However, she acknowledged the disparity in teacher-student ratios in some schools, with cases where 200 children are taught by only two teachers, while in others, 40 teachers are responsible for just two students.
In her closing remarks, CM Maryam stated, “Education is very close to my heart, and today marks the realization of a long-held dream. I don’t make decisions from the office; I visit the field myself to ensure we are on the right track. This program is a cornerstone of our broader efforts to improve the quality of education across Punjab.” She remains committed to introducing more relief-oriented projects to support the people of the province, ensuring that the education sector continues to progress.
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