Chief Minister (CM) Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the outsourcing of approximately 14,000 government schools under the Public Schools Reorganisation Programme (PSRP).
“In the first phase, 5,800 schools are being outsourced,” said CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif during the inauguration of the programme. “We will monitor and supervise the process ourselves,” she added in a press statement.
Punjab has 50,000 schools, and according to the CM, it is difficult to ensure constant oversight of every institution. She explained that those who will manage the outsourced schools will now be part of the Punjab government’s team.
The Public Schools Reorganisation Programme is expected to save Rs. 40 billion and create employment opportunities for 70,000 educated youth. CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif also announced plans to build kindergarten schools in other districts following the model in Lahore. During the ceremony, she distributed licenses for the programme.
She emphasized that the outsourcing of schools was conducted on a 100% merit basis. Visiting faculty may also be hired to teach English-speaking skills, and the curriculum and monitoring will remain under the Punjab government’s control. Additionally, the programme will see schools upgraded from five to eight classes, with a focus on fostering students’ talents through themed initiatives.
Sports talent will also be nurtured in government schools, and transport facilities will be provided for girls’ educational institutions. CM Maryam stressed that the programme is not a commercial venture but a “sacred responsibility” to provide children with the best possible curriculum. She praised the intelligence of government school students, noting that they achieve top positions despite limited resources.
She further stated that if the outsourced schools exceed expectations, they will receive additional funds. Education, she said, is a key priority for her, and the launch of this programme reflects a dream coming to fruition. CM Maryam highlighted her hands-on approach, visiting schools and reviewing conditions in person to make informed decisions.
Addressing the concerns raised by critics, she dismissed conspiracy theories that schools were being handed over to contractors, reiterating that the outsourcing was done in partnership with well-known school chains and public-private collaboration. Improvements have already been seen in building conditions, cleanliness, and facilities such as labs in many schools.
The CM also announced that zebra crossings will be installed near schools to ensure student safety, with staff assigned to help children cross roads. Additionally, a ban has been imposed on vehicles operating without fitness certificates or indulging in overloading near schools. She acknowledged that while conditions in Punjab’s schools are better than in other provinces, some schools still face challenges, such as having only two teachers for 200 students, or 40 teachers for just two students.