Punjab’s education system is set for a significant upgrade after the World Bank approved a $47.9 million grant to enhance early childhood and primary schooling. The programme aims to improve enrolment, teacher skills and support systems, with special attention to vulnerable and differently-abled children.
The grant, financed by the Global Partnership for Education Fund, is expected to reach nearly four million beneficiaries. These include more than 80,000 children who are currently out of school, over three million already enrolled in public schools, 850,000 students in the non-formal education network, and 140,000 children with disabilities in special education institutions.
The World Bank said the project will also strengthen the role of teachers and communities. Over 100,000 educators, school leaders and parents will receive training and guidance to improve learning outcomes and school management.
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World Bank officials described the programme as part of a wider reform effort in Punjab, focused on governance, transparency and inclusion. They noted that the education sector must adapt to challenges such as climate change and emergencies, while ensuring access for the most disadvantaged groups.
The announcement follows previous World Bank-backed education efforts in Pakistan, including the $100 million GRADES-Balochistan project approved earlier this year. The institution said its investments in Pakistan total more than $48 billion since 1950, supporting a range of sectors from infrastructure to healthcare.