The Punjab government has announced a major expansion of its laptop scheme, extending the initiative to students enrolled in private educational institutions across the province. Under the programme, 10,000 free laptops will be distributed to eligible private-sector students. The decision aims to promote digital access and reduce educational inequality. Consequently, thousands of students are expected to benefit from improved learning resources.
Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat declared 2025 as the year of initiatives to improve education while reviewing the department’s overall performance. He stated that education-focused reforms continued throughout the year, building on progress achieved previously. According to the minister, the government remained committed to strengthening both public and private education sectors. Therefore, technology-driven support has become a central policy focus.
Read more : Free laptop scheme distribution schedule announced –
Highlighting key achievements, Hayat said the department successfully eliminated two million ghost enrolments from educational institutions. In addition, teacher shortages were addressed by rationalising around 26,000 teachers across schools. These measures improved classroom efficiency and resource allocation. As a result, the education system witnessed greater transparency and better management.
The minister further noted that syllabus updates and examination reforms were introduced to modernise the learning process. Education boards were shifted to an e-marking system to enhance accuracy and efficiency. Meanwhile, early childhood education received special attention through the establishment of ECE rooms in 10,000 schools. These reforms aim to strengthen learning foundations at an early stage.
Read more : Maryam’s laptop scheme draws national interest
Moreover, the Punjab government expanded its student nutrition programme, benefiting nearly 1.1 million male and female students daily. Alongside this, 268 schools were upgraded to improve infrastructure and learning environments. Authorities also resolved 37 cases related to teacher harassment. Consequently, the government emphasized student welfare and institutional accountability.
In higher education, Hayat said the process of appointing principals in 450 colleges and vice-chancellors in 29 universities has been completed on merit. These appointments aim to strengthen leadership and governance within educational institutions. Overall, the government views these initiatives as long-term investments in education quality. The expanded laptop scheme now stands as another step toward inclusive and digital learning.