1.1 Million Out-of-School Children Enrolled Across Punjab

In a significant breakthrough for Pakistan’s education system, the Punjab government has enrolled over 1.1 million out-of-school children across the province. This ambitious initiative is part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s mission to uplift education, ensure access to schooling for every child, and bridge the literacy gap.

• Over 1.1 million previously out-of-school children enrolled in Punjab.

• 11,000+ government schools outsourced for better administration.

• Rs. 10 billion allocated for school infrastructure upgrades within 90 days.

• 580 severely damaged school buildings to be fully rehabilitated.

• Focus on girls’ education and youth skill development.

• English-speaking courses for 500,000 students in public schools.

• Expansion of school meal programs to support nutrition and attendance.

• Launch of Nawaz Sharif Schools of Eminence across all districts.

• Construction of 300 tech-based schools in 10 tehsils announced.

The campaign to bring out-of-school children back into classrooms reflects the Punjab government's serious commitment to education reform. Spearheaded by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, this initiative aims to eradicate illiteracy, reduce dropout rates, and build a stronger foundation for Pakistan’s youth.

“Every child in Punjab deserves access to education. No child will be left behind.” — Maryam Nawaz Sharif

To improve the overall management and quality of education, more than 11,000 government schools have been outsourced. This strategic step will:

• Encourage public-private partnerships in the education sector.

• Introduce modern teaching methods and better accountability.

• Enhance student learning outcomes through improved management.

To support the influx of students, Punjab has approved Rs. 10 billion for quick infrastructural development in schools. The 90-day improvement plan includes:

• Construction of new classrooms.

• Renovation of outdated school buildings.

• Installation of clean drinking water facilities and toilets.

• Provision of desks, fans, and lighting.

Out of the 4,000+ schools surveyed:

• 580 buildings were found in a dilapidated condition.

• 2,770 were classified as vulnerable or unsafe.

The government has prioritized the complete repair and rehabilitation of these institutions to ensure safe learning environments.

District education officers, teachers, and local volunteers collaborated on door-to-door campaigns to identify out-of-school children and convince parents to enroll them. Focus areas included:

• Remote and rural areas with poor school access.

• Low-income communities where children often work to support their families.

• Girls' education, encouraging higher female participation in schools.

Understanding the need for global communication skills, the Punjab government has launched an initiative to teach spoken English in government schools. The plan includes:

• Interactive English courses for students.

• Training of English teachers with modern teaching tools.

• Motivational activities to build students' confidence in speaking.

In a visionary move, Schools of Eminence are being launched across every district, with world-class facilities such as:

• Smart classrooms with digital learning boards.

• Fully equipped libraries and science labs.

• Computer labs for IT education.

• Indoor and outdoor sports facilities.

These schools will set a new standard for free, quality education accessible to all.

Parents, teachers, and education experts have welcomed the initiative:

“This is the first time in decades we’ve seen such strong action on education.”
— Ayesha Khan, Primary School Teacher, Gujrat

“I wanted my daughter to study, but couldn’t afford it. Now she’s enrolled, and it’s free.”
— Irfan Ali, Farmer, Bahawalpur

The enrollment of 1.1 million out-of-school children is a historic achievement for Punjab and a powerful message that education is a right, not a privilege. With proper implementation, continued funding, and strong leadership, this initiative can reshape the future of Pakistan’s youth.