PEIMA Cancels 1,600 School Licenses – New Applications Open Till May 10

The Punjab Education Initiative Management Authority (PEIMA) has revoked the licenses of over 1,600 partner schools, citing newly introduced conditions. This decision has sparked controversy, with school licensees expressing strong reservations and threatening protests if the decision is not reversed.

Fresh applications have been invited, with a deadline of May 10 and an application fee of Rs 10,000. This move has raised concerns about transparency and fairness in the licensing process.

Why Did PEIMA Revoke the Licenses?

PEIMA has not provided detailed reasons for the mass cancellation, but sources indicate that the decision is linked to newly introduced conditions. Many of the affected schools were operated by NGOs and individual partners.

Key Reasons for License Cancellation:

• Failure to meet newly imposed standards

• Possible political influence in license allocation

• Compliance issues with PEIMA’s updated policies

Fresh Applications Invited – New Conditions Apply

PEIMA has opened a new application process for re-contracting these schools. Key details include:

Steps to Apply for a PEIMA School License:

1. Submit application before the deadline.

2. Pay the non-refundable fee of Rs 10,000.

3. Meet PEIMA’s new eligibility criteria.

4. Await approval after evaluation.

License Holders Protest PEIMA’s Decision

Sadaqat Hussain Khan Lodhi, Provincial Convener of PEIMA School Licensees, has strongly criticized the move, calling it unjust and politically motivated.

Key Concerns Raised by Licensees:

• Heavy financial investments made by schools under a 3-year contract.

• Sudden policy changes without prior notice.

• Allegations of favoritism in license allocation.

Lodhi warned that if PEIMA does not review and reverse the decision, license holders will stage protests.

Impact on Education in Punjab

The sudden revocation of licenses could have serious consequences for students, teachers, and the education system.

Potential Effects:

✔ Disruption of education for thousands of students.
✔ Financial losses for school operators.
✔ Uncertainty among teachers and staff.
✔ Possible decline in private sector trust in government partnerships.

What Should Affected Schools Do Now?

If your school’s license has been revoked, consider the following steps:

1. Reapply before May 10 with updated documentation.

2. Ensure compliance with PEIMA’s new conditions.

3. Seek legal advice if the cancellation seems unfair.

4. Join licensee associations to collectively demand justice.

PEIMA’s decision to revoke 1,600 school licenses has created unrest among education providers. While the authority claims the move is based on new regulations, licensees argue that it disregards their investments and efforts.

With the May 10 deadline approaching, affected schools must act quickly. If PEIMA does not address concerns, protests and legal challenges may follow, further complicating Punjab’s education landscape.

Call to Action

• Affected schools: Submit fresh applications promptly.

• PEIMA officials: Reconsider the decision to ensure fairness.

• Government: Monitor the process to prevent political interference.

This situation highlights the need for transparent policies and stakeholder consultation in education reforms.