Punjab enforces fresh SOPs for school safety

Punjab issues SOPs for student safety, cleanliness, and bans smoking, detaining students after hours.

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RAWALPINDI:

The Punjab Education Department has issued new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure foolproof safety of students and provide a conducive learning environment in all public schools.

Chief Executive Officers of the District Education Authorities (DEAs) have been directed to enforce these SOPs. Under the new guidelines, smoking by teachers, students, and staff within the school premises is strictly prohibited, and any violations will lead to departmental action. Additionally, strict instructions have been given to lock unused rooms, storerooms, and stairways in government schools.

There is also a firm ban on detaining students after school hours, with a requirement that headteachers designate a focal person responsible for ensuring no student is kept in the school after hours and for submitting reports on this matter.

Classrooms, hallways, and staircases must be maintained in a completely clean and orderly state.

Washrooms must be kept thoroughly clean, with essential supplies such as water, towels, and soap provided at all times. Sports fields should be kept tidy, free of wild plants and overgrown grass.