Fundamental right: School enrollment campaign rolls out in Faisalabad

Secretary says govt hopes to enrol 580,000 students in the city by October 31.

FAISALABAD:

Student enrolment under the Parho Punjab, Barho Punjab campaign began in Faisalabad on Monday.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Schools Secretary Abdul Jabbar Shaheen said the government hoped to enrol 580,000 students in Faisalabad division by October 31.

He signed enrolment forms and distributed books and bags among students.

Education EDOs of Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh and Chiniot, teachers and representatives of private schools’ alliance, parents and students attended the ceremony.

Shaheen said that Parho Punjab, Barho Punjab was aimed at improving literacy and addressing various problems in the education sector. “The government wants to ensure every child has access to education.”

He said missing facilities at campuses had been provided and teachers’ assistance and suggestions had been sought in devising the campaign. He said some 130,000 teachers would be hired as the programme unfolded in the province.

He urged district authorities to conduct regular surveys in schools to check attendance.

“They should also ensure basic facilities are available on campuses at all times,” he said.



He said the government had taken steps to improve security around schools after the December 16 attack on Army Public School in Peshawar.

“The government takes its commitments on education very seriously,” he said. “No one will be allowed to jeopardise the future of our children.”

He urged teachers to remain vigilant and not hesitate to point out flaws in security plans around school campuses.

“It is time to bring Pakistan’s name on the list of progressive nations,” he said. “This has put an immense responsibility on the Education Department and educators. This is why the role of teachers is vital for ensuring the success of this programme.”

He said the Punjab chief minister had promised quality education for all children of the province and had shown concern over low attendance and results in public schools.

He said the programme would be evaluated at every step.

“Those found underperforming will be dealt with,” he said. “Negligence and complacency will not be tolerated.”

Later, the education secretary visited a girls high school on Susan Road and inspected facilities available for students.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 7^th, 2015.