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The Punjab government has expanded its controversial education privatization program, moving from public schools to government colleges, triggering widespread opposition from teachers’ associations. In the first phase, 100 public colleges, including both commerce colleges in Rawalpindi, will be handed over to private management.
Punjab has already privatized 12,500 public schools under its earlier program aimed at improving efficiency and reducing costs. The next phase, starting November 1, includes another 7,000 primary and middle schools and several high and higher secondary schools, particularly those with fewer than 100 students.
Punjab currently runs 750 government colleges, and the decision to outsource them comes amid rising education costs. Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat defended the move, stating,
“We cannot justify spending Rs. 300,000 per student annually at commerce colleges. Our focus is on creating modern, well-equipped institutions with advanced labs and up to 400 computers to enhance learning quality.”
However, teachers’ unions and education activists have strongly opposed the plan, calling it a step toward “commercializing education.” They have announced sit-ins, strikes, and province-wide protests, urging the government to withdraw the decision.
The provincial government plans to complete the full privatization of schools and colleges by March 31, 2026, ahead of the next academic year. Meanwhile, the move has reignited debates about access, equity, and the future of public education in Punjab.
Experts warn that rapid privatization could widen the education gap between urban and rural areas. While the government argues it will improve quality and accountability, critics fear it may lead to higher fees and job insecurity for teachers.
