10,000 Free Laptops Now Reserved for Private School Students
Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar has announced that the Punjab government has decided to include students from private educational institutions in the official laptop scheme. Under this decision, 10,000 laptops will be distributed among eligible students studying in private schools and colleges across the province. The minister said that the competent authority has approved the move and distribution is expected to take place within the current year.
By opening the scheme to private-sector students, the government aims to reduce the digital gap between public and private institutions. Officials believe that access to laptops can help students prepare for board exams, apply for higher education and learn essential digital skills that are now required in almost every field.
Education Development Budget Raised to Rs 110 Billion
Rana Sikandar revealed that the education development budget has been increased to Rs 110 billion, signalling a strong provincial focus on schooling and youth development. This enhanced allocation is expected to support multiple initiatives, including infrastructure upgrades, technology programmes and teacher training.
According to the minister, investment in education is directly linked with economic growth and social stability. He argued that modern classrooms, science labs, digital tools and trained teachers are necessary if Punjab wants its students to compete at national and international levels. The expanded budget also provides room for targeted schemes such as laptop distribution, scholarships and special support for underprivileged students.
Hundreds of Schools Upgraded and Teacher Harassment Cases Addressed
Sharing more details, the minister said that the government upgraded 268 schools during 2025, improving their status, facilities or both. Upgradation can include adding new classrooms, introducing higher classes, improving lab and library facilities or providing better furniture and learning materials.
At the same time, authorities processed 37 cases related to teacher harassment and issued decisions in each of them. Rana Sikandar stressed that the government is committed to protecting teachers and students from harassment and misconduct. By taking disciplinary cases seriously, the department hopes to create safer and more respectful learning environments in schools across Punjab.
Teacher Takreem Awards Launched to Recognise Educators
For the first time, the Punjab government has launched the Teacher Takreem Awards to formally recognise the efforts of outstanding educators. Through this initiative, teachers who deliver exceptional results, innovate in the classroom or serve in difficult areas can receive public appreciation and official awards.
The minister said that teachers are the backbone of the education system and deserve both respect and practical support. Awards, certificates and recognition ceremonies can boost morale and encourage other teachers to adopt best practices in teaching, discipline and student mentoring. The Teacher Takreem Awards are intended to build a culture where high performance in education is celebrated, not ignored.
Centres of Excellence and Schools of Eminence Under Development
Rana Sikandar also announced that work has begun on establishing Centres of Excellence in 10 districts of Punjab. These centres are expected to serve as model institutions with strong leadership, trained staff, modern facilities and a focus on both academic and co-curricular development. They will likely act as training and resource hubs for surrounding schools.
In addition, the province is moving ahead with the development of 300 Schools of Eminence. These schools are being designed to offer a higher standard of education, with better infrastructure, smaller class sizes where possible and improved focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects. The goal is to create a network of high-performing schools that can set benchmarks for quality and guide broader reforms in the education sector.
Digital Access and Quality Education Go Hand in Hand
The decision to include private school students in the laptop scheme fits into a wider strategy that connects digital access with quality education. With laptops, students can access online lectures, digital libraries, exam preparation platforms and global learning resources that may not be available in their local surroundings.
Officials argue that modern classrooms are no longer limited to textbooks and blackboards. When combined with better-funded schools, motivated teachers and strong accountability, technology can help students think critically, solve problems and explore career options beyond their immediate environment. If implemented effectively, Punjab’s mix of free laptops, upgraded schools, teacher recognition and model institutions could significantly raise learning outcomes for the next generation.
