RAWALPINDI:
The Punjab Education Department has approved a project to designate pre-partition era government schools as historical heritage sites. Under the initiative, schools will be restored and preserved.
A circular issued by the secretary of school education, Punjab to the chief executive officers of district education authorities and district education officers in all 41 districts of the province has mandated collection of comprehensive data on such heritage schools.
The circular specified that the details should include the construction dates of the schools, their brief history, the number of classrooms, auditoriums and staff rooms, as well as the current enrollment of students.
In addition, information must be provided on the condition of buildings, including dilapidated structures, and the total covered and open area of schools.
Authorities have been asked to report if any school land is under illegal occupation.
Each school must also submit five recent photographs to support the data.
Education officials revealed that schools built during the British colonial era will be prioritized for renovations, and special funds will be allocated for this purpose. These institutions will be declared model schools and immediate steps will be taken to address the shortage of teaching and non-teaching staff.
Efforts will also be made to expand student enrollment capabilities.
Additionally, as part of this project, alumni who have excelled in various fields and hold prestigious positions will be highlighted, further showcasing the legacy of these historic schools.
