Empowering public schools

More clarity has been provided regarding Punjab's bold decision to privatise a substantial number of its public schools. This move, which involves the handover of nearly 5,863 schools in its initial phase, with another 4,000 to follow in the second and third phase each, is part of a sweeping public-private partnership aimed at revamping the province's education system. Agreements have been signed with 21 NGOs, 12 educational chains and one Ed-tech firm.

On paper, the privatisation plan promises increased efficiency and better resource management. The government's commitment to bringing 1.8 million out-of-school children back into classrooms is commendable, as is the plan to upgrade select primary schools to the elementary level. However, the real test lies in whether these lofty goals can be achieved without compromising the quality and accessibility of education. One of the most pressing concerns is the allocation of funds. The government's provision of Rs650 per student per month to private entities raises questions about whether this amount is adequate to maintain, let alone improve, the degraded standard of education. Critics argue that such a budget is insufficient to cover the comprehensive needs of running a school - ranging from teacher salaries to facility maintenance - and could lead to cost-cutting measures that further harm the very students this initiative is supposed to benefit. For example, the possibility of hiring teachers, some without adequate qualifications, at meager salaries could potentially shift focus from delivering quality education to maintaining financial efficiency.

In the rush to modernise and reform, we must not lose sight of the core purpose of public education: to serve as an equalising force in society. The Punjab government must tread carefully, ensuring that this plan enhances, rather than undermines, the quality and accessibility of education for all. It is a delicate balancing act.