Government Schools Beats Private Institutions in Punjab Matriculation Exams

July 11, 2024

written by Sidra Batool

Education Minister Announces Across-the-board Improvements and Achievements in Public Education Sector

Government schools in Punjab have surpassed their private counterparts in recent matriculation examinations, marking a significant shift in the education landscape. During a press conference, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat revealed this achievement, highlighting a series of reforms that led to this remarkable turnaround.

For the first time in five years, public schools clinched top positions in five out of nine educational boards, showcasing the fruits of the government’s efforts to enhance the quality of education in the public sector. This success has prompted a reevaluation of fee structures in private schools.

The government’s crackdown on cheating played a crucial role in ensuring fair exams. Minister Hayat reported that 270 cheating centers were identified and shut down during the matriculation exams, with plans to maintain a zero-tolerance policy for upcoming intermediate exams.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has allocated 250 million rupees for awards to top-performing students to recognize and encourage academic excellence. The minister also highlighted the success of the Danish School system, countering critics with its impressive matriculation results.

Addressing the long-standing issue of teacher shortages, the education department has made significant strides. Through strategic reallocation of surplus teachers, the deficit has been reduced from 180,000 to 38,000, with plans to eliminate it entirely within three months.

The government also tackles corruption and favoritism in teacher transfers through a new e-transfer policy. Additionally, 2,000 hidden posts in the School Information app have been uncovered, promoting transparency in the system.

Looking ahead, the ministry has launched a foundational learning program for 150,000 children in South Punjab, offering three-month technical courses to equip students with practical skills for self-sufficiency.

University reforms are also underway, with permanent vice-chancellors being appointed through a merit-based process and past irregularities in university syndicates under audit.

Minister Hayat emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming public schools into institutions of choice, aiming to attract even private school students. He concluded by stating that private schools must now adapt to the new policies established for them, signaling a new era in Punjab’s education system.