Lahore, Pakistan – Punjab’s Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has emphasized that politics should never interfere with education. Speaking to the media, he detailed several reforms and initiatives across the province, while also linking his party’s recent by-election successes to public confidence in the government’s performance.
Continuous Development Across Punjab
Rana Sikandar Hayat said that Punjab is undergoing continuous development to improve public services and infrastructure. We are working day and night to ensure that citizens receive better facilities, he explained. Furthermore, he noted that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz personally oversees key projects to maximize their effectiveness.
In addition to education, the minister highlighted improvements in housing and transportation. Thousands of homes have been completed for eligible families, providing much-needed relief to low-income communities. Meanwhile, several cities have introduced electric buses to offer reliable and eco-friendly public transportation. These buses provide safe and modern travel for residents, Hayat said, illustrating the government’s broader commitment to modernization.
Education Reforms and Student Welfare
Hayat outlined specific reforms in the education sector designed to benefit students. For instance, authorities officially designated Saturdays as a holiday in all schools. This adjustment aligns our academic schedule with international standards and gives students and teachers a consistent weekly rest day, he explained.
Additionally, the minister stressed the government’s commitment to improving overall student welfare. I dream of resolving Punjab’s education challenges completely, he said. He highlighted programs that aim to provide nutritious meals to over 1.1 million children. As a result, officials expect improved attendance and stronger learning outcomes across schools.
Linking Development Work to Electoral Success
Rana Sikandar Hayat also connected development achievements to political performance. In Haripur, a PML-N candidate defeated a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rival in the by-elections. He argued that voters rewarded effective governance rather than political slogans. Furthermore, he addressed concerns raised by students in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regarding delayed laptops and scholarships. We recognize their concerns, and we must ensure that every student receives fair access to educational resources, he said, underscoring the government’s focus on merit and equity.
A Strong Call for Politics-Free Education
In his concluding remarks, Hayat firmly stated that schools must remain free from political influence. We cannot allow politics to determine our children’s future, he said. Moreover, he stressed that classroom policies and administrative decisions should prioritize quality education, equal opportunity, and fairness over partisan agendas.
Challenges and Context
Despite reforms, Punjab continues to face significant challenges in education. Over 11 million children attend schools in the province, yet teacher shortages, outdated curricula, and regional disparities limit progress. However, initiatives such as free meals, scholarships, and laptop programs aim to bridge these gaps, although consistent implementation remains critical.
Hayat’s comments also reflect a wider trend in Pakistani provincial politics, where governments link development initiatives to electoral outcomes. While the PML-N celebrates its recent by-election victories, experts argue that lasting educational reform requires sustained, long-term efforts. By focusing on tangible improvements and maintaining a politics-free education system, Punjab’s administration seeks to strengthen public trust and ensure equitable access to quality schooling.
Furthermore, the government continues to prioritize both infrastructure development and student welfare, aiming for measurable progress in coming years. As a result, Punjab hopes to set an example for other provinces by combining governance, development, and educational equity.
