The Punjab School Education Department has introduced new safety guidelines for educational trips and recreational tours organised by public and private schools. Under the new rules, schools must obtain prior approval from the relevant District Education Authority before arranging any educational tour.
The department has banned travel on highways and in hilly areas at night during bad weather. Schools must also obtain written consent from parents and collect emergency contact numbers before taking students on trips. Administrations are required to share complete tour schedules, transportation details and student lists with the relevant authorities.
The new guidelines also make the presence of a senior teacher or group in-charge mandatory during every trip. A senior female teacher must accompany female students, while schools must maintain a supervision ratio of one teacher for every 15 students. Only vehicles with valid fitness certificates and commercial permits can be used for transportation.
Students must carry school identity cards containing emergency contact numbers and blood group details. School staff are also required to carry first aid kits and maintain records of students’ medical information. During trips, students cannot visit unapproved locations or leave their groups, while carrying tobacco, weapons and other dangerous items is strictly prohibited.
The department has further directed schools to collect a report, project or presentation from students after each trip. The instructions will apply to all public and private schools across Punjab.
