Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled a series of groundbreaking educational reforms aimed at transforming the education system in Punjab. These initiatives focus on student scholarships, modernizing school infrastructure, increasing enrollment, and enhancing technical education. This article explores the key aspects of these reforms and their expected impact on the province's education sector.

Key Educational Initiatives

CM Education Card

A major initiative under the new reforms is the CM Education Card, designed to streamline and enhance the accessibility of school education across Punjab.

CM Eminence/Star Card

High-achieving students scoring above 80% will be recognized and rewarded with the CM Eminence/Star Card, which acknowledges outstanding academic performance and encourages a culture of excellence.

Impact of Outsourcing Schools

One of the most significant changes has been the outsourcing of schools, which has led to remarkable improvements:

Schools of Eminence and Technical Education

The Punjab government is set to establish Schools of Eminence across all tehsils, ensuring high-quality education is accessible everywhere.

Additionally, a Matriculation Tech Lab will be introduced, with technical education starting from grade five onwards, equipping students with practical skills in various fields.

Textbook Board Savings and Classroom Improvements

• One billion rupees saved by the Textbook Board through efficiency improvements.

• Drinking water, furniture, and school maintenance initiatives to be completed within 90 days.

• Textbooks delivered at the start of the academic session in March for the first time in Punjab’s history.

Enrollment and School Meal Program

Enrollment Targets

The government has set an ambitious annual target to enroll 2 million children in schools, ensuring a greater number of students receive formal education.

School Meal Program

To tackle malnutrition and boost student health, a school meal program is being implemented in districts such as Bhakkar and Layyah. A similar initiative in Muzaffargarh and Rajanpur has already demonstrated success in improving:

• Physical development

• Student attendance

• Overall enrollment figures

English Language and Road Safety Initiatives

• English conversation classes launched in 338 schools in Lahore.

• Plans for international English courses with certifications in government schools.

• Strict implementation of zebra crossings to improve road safety around schools.

International Opportunities for Teachers

With support from the British Council, five government school teachers will have the opportunity to participate in a study tour of Scotland, gaining international exposure and insights into modern education systems.

Nawaz Sharif Center of Excellence for Early Childhood Education

The Nawaz Sharif Center of Excellence for Early Childhood Education is expanding its capacity from 250 to 1,200 students, playing a pivotal role in the foundational years of learning.

School Teacher Internship Program

• 12,500 teaching interns to be recruited across Punjab.

• A high volume of applications received, reflecting strong interest in the program.

• New classrooms constructed and existing facilities renovated through outsourcing initiatives.

Expansion of Matric Tech Schools

2,000 Matric Tech schools have been established, enrolling 235,000 students in specialized subjects, including:

• Agriculture

• Fashion Design

• Health Sciences

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Strengthening Educational Leadership

• 287 CEOs, DEOs, and education officers appointed through a rigorous selection process.

• Interviews conducted personally by the Education Minister to ensure transparency and merit-based selections.

Alumni Association and Green Initiatives

Alumni Support

• The Alumni Association will contribute to new school construction projects, strengthening community involvement in education.

Green Schools Initiative

Under the “One Plant, One Teacher’s Name” initiative, two million saplings have been planted.

Infrastructure Development

• 30,000 new classrooms to be built.

• 600 elementary schools and 400 high schools to be established over the next five years.

CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s education reforms in Punjab represent a historic transformation in school education, prioritizing student welfare, teacher benefits, and infrastructure development. By integrating technical education, scholarships, school meal programs, and international collaborations, Punjab is set to witness a remarkable improvement in its education system, ensuring a brighter future for its youth.