CM education card: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has rolled out a set of education sector reforms aimed at enhancing school infrastructure, teacher recruitment, and student support programs across the province.
One of the flagship initiatives is the CM Education Card, which will provide financial and academic assistance to students enrolled in government schools. As part of the incentives for high achievers, students securing over 80% marks will receive the CM Eminence/Star Card to encourage academic excellence.
How to Apply for the CM Education Card
The government has yet to release detailed application guidelines, but students and parents can follow these general steps:
1. Check Eligibility
The CM Education Card is specifically for students in government schools.
There may be additional criteria related to academic performance or financial background.
2. Visit the Official Website or School Administration
The Punjab Education Department is expected to launch an online portal for applications.
Students can also approach their school administration for further details.
3. Submit Required Documents
Applicants may need to provide proof of enrollment, a B-Form or CNIC copy (for older students), and other supporting documents.
4. Verification Process
School authorities or education officials will verify applications before final approval.
5. Card Issuance and Benefits
Approved students will receive the CM Education Card, which grants access to educational resources, scholarships, and other support initiatives.
Expanding Access to Education
In an effort to bring more children into the education system, the Punjab government has set a goal of enrolling two million out-of-school children annually. Additionally, a school meal program will be launched in districts such as Bhakkar and Layyah to improve student health and attendance.
The Public School Reorganization Program has already yielded significant results, with student enrollment increasing by 52%, from 242,000 to 368,000. Outsourced schools have also seen an 89% increase in teachers, along with a threefold rise in teacher salaries. Infrastructure improvements include:
35 new classrooms built
459 classrooms renovated
110 new toilets constructed
2,762 toilets upgraded
Modern computer labs, additional furniture, and enhanced boundary walls installed
Vocational Training and English Language Focus
The Punjab government is introducing technical education as a subject from Grade 5 onwards. To support this shift, a state-of-the-art lab for Matric Tech students will be established, and new vocational courses in agriculture, fashion design, and ICT will be introduced at the matriculation level.
English language education is also receiving special attention. A pilot program for English conversation classes has been launched in 338 schools in Lahore, and discussions are underway to offer internationally certified English courses in public schools.
Strengthening the Teaching Workforce
To improve education administration, 287 CEOs, DEOs, and education officers have been appointed across Punjab. The School Teacher Internship Program will also bring in 12,500 interns to fill teaching gaps. Additionally, for the first time in Punjab’s history, textbooks were delivered on time at the start of the academic year in March.
Future Development Plans
The Punjab government has unveiled a five-year education plan, which includes:
30,000 new classrooms
600 new elementary schools
400 new high schools
Alumni engagement programs will also be launched to support the development of new school buildings, playgrounds, and infrastructure.
These reforms mark a significant step towards transforming Punjab’s education sector, ensuring better learning environments and opportunities for students.
