Maryam Nawaz Launches CM Education Card to Reward High Achievers

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has unveiled the CM Education Card initiative to promote academic excellence and elevate the province’s education system. As part of this initiative, students scoring over 80% in annual exams will receive the CM Star Card, formally known as the CM Eminence Star Card, recognizing their achievements and encouraging academic performance.

Beyond student rewards, the government has also announced a series of significant education reforms. A state-of-the-art laboratory for matriculation and technical education will be established, and a pilot project for English-speaking classes will launch in 338 schools in Lahore. The Technical Education subject will also be introduced from class five onwards to equip students with practical skills early on.

In an effort to improve school infrastructure, the Chief Minister has set a 90-day deadline to ensure the availability of drinking water, classroom furniture, and whitewashing in schools. Additionally, the Punjab School Meal Programme will be expanded to Bhakkar, Layyah, and other districts to enhance student health, attendance, and enrollment.

With a focus on teacher development, the Punjab government has tripled teacher salaries and improved classroom facilities, increasing desks and chairs from 371,000 to 523,000. Furthermore, five government school teachers will be sent on a study tour to Scotland with the support of the British Council to learn best practices in education.

The Nawaz Sharif Center of Excellence for Early Childhood Education will expand to accommodate 1,200 students, up from its current capacity of 250. Additionally, 12,500 interns have been appointed to assist teachers and students across schools.

To improve road safety, the CM has directed authorities to implement zebra crossings in front of schools to ensure student safety. Performance-based Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) will be used to monitor education officers and teachers, ensuring accountability and sustained progress.