Rs750b set aside for education

Outlay demonstrates push for reform

LAHORE:

The Punjab government has announced an allocation of Rs 750 billion for the education sector in its budget for 2026-27, reflecting a policy focus on improving access, quality and infrastructure across the province.

The allocation accounts for over 15 per cent of the overall provincial budget, underscoring education as one of the government's top development priorities.

According to the budget details, the education sector is set to receive the largest share of provincial resources this year with a significant portion dedicated to sustaining existing operations alongside development plans. Of the allocation, approximately Rs 686 billion has been set aside under non-development expenditures covering salaries, administrative costs, institutional maintenance and other recurring obligations required to keep the vast public education system functioning across Punjab.

In addition, over Rs 63 billion has been allocated under the development budget. These funds are intended to support infrastructure projects, modernisation of educational facilities, and the introduction of reform-based initiatives designed to enhance learning outcomes and expand access, particularly in underserved regions.

One of the most prominent initiatives in the budget is the expansion of the Chief Minister Punjab Laptop Scheme, under which Rs 27 billion has been earmarked for the distribution of more than 100,000 laptops among students. The initiative aims to strengthen digital learning capabilities, reduce the technology gap between urban and rural students and ensure that young learners are equipped with the tools necessary for modern education and competitive academic environments.

Alongside the laptop scheme, the government has allocated Rs4 billion for the Honhar Programme designed to identify high-achieving students.