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Despite the allocation of Rs. 4,080 million for government schools across Punjab, public schools in Lahore are facing an acute financial crunch as their non-salary budget has yet to be released. School administrations say the delay has made it increasingly difficult to keep institutions running smoothly, even as the academic year continues.
Heads of government schools in Lahore report that school accounts have not received funds for October, November, and December, even though the second quarterly installment of the non-salary budget was officially released in December. As a result, schools are struggling to pay electricity bills, water charges, and routine maintenance costs, creating mounting administrative pressure.
A school head, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “We are managing day-to-day operations on credit. Without the non-salary budget, even basic facilities for students are at risk.”
According to official figures, authorities allocated Rs. 13.44 crore specifically for Lahore’s government schools, while the total Punjab wide allocation stands at Rs. 408 crore. Non-salary budgets are meant to cover essential expenses such as utilities, classroom repairs, sanitation, and minor procurement costs that directly affect the learning environment.
However, the delay in transferring funds to school accounts has widened the gap between policy decisions and ground realities, particularly in Lahore, where school density and operating costs are higher.
School administrators warn that continued delays could disrupt educational activities and limit their ability to provide essential services to students. Many are now demanding the immediate release of pending funds, stressing that timely disbursement is critical to avoid further deterioration of school infrastructure and services.
Another administrator noted, “Allocations on paper don’t help unless the money reaches schools. The system needs urgent fixing.”
