Schools operate in risky buildings

The deteriorating buildings of a large number of private educational institutions have become a threat to children's lives, causing consternation among the parents.

A local trader, Rehman Malik, whose children study in a private school, said that the building was in such a poor condition that there was a constant risk of a major accident.

He stated, "We have repeatedly informed the school administration about the dangerous state of the building, but they are not taking the matter seriously."

Another resident, Muhammad Shehzad, a property dealer, also expressed concern over the issue. He said, "The old and weak buildings of private schools can cause a tragedy at any time, yet the authorities concerned remain silent spectators. We cannot risk our children's lives."

The parents said the provincial government should take action against the private schools that were violating the relevant rules, in order to prevent any loss.

Meanwhile, an engineering firm authorised by the Punjab government to inspect private school buildings has sent a letter to the deputy commissioner of Vehari, calling for an investigation into the alleged issuance of fake building fitness certificates to hundreds of schools in the district.

The company stated that it had issued around 450 fitness certificates for the academic year 2024-25, while more than 1,800 private schools were shown as registered on the school education department's portal.

A spokesperson for the deputy commissioner stated that the official had promptly taken action on the letter and referred the matter to the education department to ensure a transparent investigation into the matter.