The Punjab government on Monday decided to upgrade hundreds of high schools across the province to higher secondary level, allowing students to pursue FA and FSC programs at their local institutions.Authorities have requested data from all high schools to assess which institutions are eligible for the upgrade. The decision will depend on factors such as the availability of space and the suitability of buildings for higher secondary education.

School heads have been asked to submit detailed reports about their institutions. A third-party inspection will also be conducted to ensure schools meet all requirements before receiving higher secondary status.Punjab has a total of 6,000 high schools, of which 5,800 have already submitted their data.

So far, 795 schools have expressed interest in upgrading, contingent on the availability of space and facilities. Officials say the initiative aims to expand access to higher secondary education, reduce the need for students to travel long distances, and strengthen local educational infrastructure across the province.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)