Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Unveils ‘Star Card’ and Major Education Reforms

Punjab Government Introduces Star Card & Education Reforms for Students

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at transforming the province’s education system. Among these initiatives is the introduction of the CM Education Card, which will provide educational support to students. Additionally, those achieving over 80% marks will be rewarded with the prestigious CM Star Card, recognizing their academic excellence.

Boost in Enrollment and Teacher Recruitment

During a special meeting on school education, CM Maryam Nawaz was briefed on the significant improvements following the outsourcing of schools. These efforts have resulted in a 52% increase in student enrollment and an 89% rise in the number of teachers.

The Public School Reorganization Program has played a crucial role in these advancements, with student numbers surging from 242,000 to 368,000, and teacher recruitment growing from 8,037 to 15,114. Teacher salaries have tripled, and classroom infrastructure—including furniture—has been expanded, with the number of chairs and desks rising from 371,000 to 523,000.

Modernizing Punjab’s Education System

To further elevate educational standards, the Punjab government has decided to establish Schools of Eminence in every tehsil. These institutions will provide world-class facilities to students. Additionally, a state-of-the-art Matriculation Tech lab will be introduced, integrating technical education from Grade 5 onwards.

Other key developments include:

• One billion rupees saved by the Textbook Board.
• A 90-day deadline for improving school infrastructure, including drinking water facilities, furniture, and general maintenance.
• An ambitious target to enroll 2 million new students annually.

School Meal Program & Nutrition Initiatives

To address malnutrition and encourage attendance, the School Meal Program will be expanded to districts such as Bhakkar and Layyah. The initiative, already successful in Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, and DG Khan, has led to increased student participation, with enrollment rising from 631,050 to 416,803. Additionally, 40 million milk packs have been distributed among students to promote better physical health.

Focus on English Proficiency and Teacher Training

To enhance communication skills, an English conversation pilot program has been launched in 338 schools in Lahore, with plans to introduce internationally certified English courses in government schools.

Moreover, five government teachers will be sent to Scotland for training under a collaboration with the British Council, ensuring that Punjab’s educators receive world-class exposure and expertise.

Infrastructure Development and Teacher Recruitment

Under the School Teacher Internship Program, 12,500 interns will be recruited across Punjab, with an overwhelming 568,000 applicants already applying. The outsourcing initiative has also led to:

• Construction of 35 new classrooms.
• 459 renovation projects completed.
• Addition of 110 new toilets and 158 boundary walls.
• Installation of 1,389 water supply pumps in schools.

Additionally, self-help initiatives have resulted in the establishment of new computer labs, benefiting thousands of students.

Sustainable Development and Expansion Plans

Looking ahead, the government has committed to:

• Constructing 30,000 classrooms, 600 elementary schools, and 400 high schools in the next five years.
• Planting two million saplings under the "One Plant, One Teacher’s Name" campaign.
• Expanding the Nawaz Sharif Center of Excellence for Early Childhood Education, increasing its student capacity from 250 to 1,200.

In a show of commitment to public education, Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has enrolled his own son in an Early Childhood Education Centre, which CM Maryam Nawaz praised as a model example for others to follow.

With these reforms, the Punjab government aims to create a more inclusive, high-quality, and accessible education system, ensuring that students receive modern facilities, improved nutrition, and enhanced learning opportunities across the province.