Lahore (Staff Report): The Punjab government has announced a three-shift schooling system to accommodate thousands of students affected by recent floods, which have forced the closure of over 3,000 schools across the province.
Meeting with UNICEF
Provincial Minister for School Education, Rana Sikandar Hayat, shared details of the plan during a meeting with UNICEF’s Representative in Pakistan, Pernille Ironside. The session also reviewed the progress of ongoing education projects in Punjab.
Flood Impact on Education
The minister said widespread flooding has severely disrupted education for children, with many school buildings either damaged or submerged. He admitted that Punjab was already facing a shortage of educational facilities, and the floods have made the situation more challenging.
Temporary Solutions
According to the minister, it could take up to three months to restore damaged schools. Until then, the government will:
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Operate existing schools in three shifts
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Arrange rented private buildings
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Set up temporary tent schools in flood-hit areas
These measures aim to ensure that learning continues without interruption despite the disaster’s impact.
