The Punjab government has ratified the upgradation of 200 afternoon schools to strengthen the education system, permitting them to be raised from primary to higher levels.
The move is aimed at expanding learning opportunities for children who often struggle to access regular morning schools due to overcrowding or limited availability in their localities.
As per the quotes of official details, the government will spend more than Rs 470 million on the project. Out of these, 64 schools are already functioning under a pilot project, while 136 new schools will be upgraded in this phase. To ensure immediate progress, the Finance Department has released Rs 100 million as the first installment.
Officials say this initiative reflects the dedication of the government to education as a top priority, guaranteeing that no child is deprived of learning opportunities due to space or timing constraints.
Timeline and Oversight
The program is set to run from April 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. During this period, District Education Authorities (DEAs) are going to check the execution on the ground and have been given the task of submitting regular reports on the utilization of funds. This accountability mechanism is meant to stop delays and guarantee that resources are utilized effectively.
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Recognizing that schools cannot function without dedicated staff, the government has also issued guidelines for teacher recruitment and salary payments. Officials kept on stressing that well-qualified teachers will be appointed and paid fairly, ensuring that the upgraded schools maintain high educational standards and provide meaningful learning experiences to students.
Opening Doors for Thousands of Students
Punjab is going to create opportunities for thousands of out-of-school children to continue their education beyond the primary level. For the families of underserved areas, this expansion means that children will no longer have to drop out early due to the unavailability of nearby schools either primary or middle.
Education experts keep on believing this decision will not only improve literacy and enrollment rates but also contribute to the province’s social and economic growth in the long run. By making afternoons productive with upgraded learning facilities, the Punjab government is sending a clear message: every child deserves the best opportunity to study and succeed.