Punjab to Transfer Control of Over 4,450 Schools to Private Sector
The Punjab government is set to advance its controversial plan to privatize government schools by transitioning control of an additional 4,453 schools to private sector entities and NGOs. This move is part of the second phase of the initiative, which follows the first phase’s transfer of 5,863 schools to similar organizations, effective from August 15.
The broader strategy aims to privatize a total of 13,219 schools in Punjab. The third phase of this plan, slated for early September, will see another 2,903 schools privatized. Upon completion of these phases, the number of government-managed schools in Punjab will be significantly reduced, leaving only 35,000 under direct government control.
Looking ahead, the Punjab government plans to further privatize an additional 15,000 schools by 2025.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz strongly supports these reforms, despite opposition from teachers’ organizations. She believes that privatization will lead to improvements in the education system, better school conditions, and enhanced academic performance.
