Pindi starts social media push for enrolments

Campaign is part of two-phase initiative aimed at increasing school admissions

RAWALPINDI:

The district education department has officially issued a policy and schedule for new admissions in government schools under the slogan "Parho ge to barho ge".

To encourage higher enrolments, teachers and school heads have been instructed to create YouTube school admission channels and Facebook pages.

Previously, the department had imposed restrictions on the social media activities of teachers, school heads, and non-teaching staff. However, new guidelines have now been issued, initiating an extensive social media campaign across platforms like Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, WhatsApp, and Instagram to promote admissions. The campaign encourages the enrolment of girls, boys, and transgender children.

The enrolment campaign for 1,850 schools in the Rawalpindi district and 42,937 government schools across Punjab began yesterday. It is divided into two phases: the first phase ends on May 31, and the second phase runs from August 15 to October 31.

Educational officers, school heads, and teachers have been empowered to oversee the admissions process. Students who get more children enrolled from nearby neighbourhoods will be awarded "Education Ambassador Badges" and "Enrolment Cups."

School heads and teachers will receive appreciation certificates and prizes for their efforts. A target has also been set for all teachers to achieve in terms of new admissions.

Regular weekly meetings of school councils will be held, and all government schools have been instructed to display banners and flex boards at school gates and prominent intersections to promote the admission campaign.

Each school must display admission campaign banners at the entrance. The campaign will highlight the presence of highly qualified teachers, free books, well-equipped science labs, and large playgrounds as key attractions.

Currently, 12.7 million children are enrolled in government schools, while 27 million children in Punjab are out of school. Furthermore, all MNAs have been assigned responsibilities to assist in the admission drive.