Smog level down but restrictions continue

The Punjab government has lifted restrictions on educational institutions in most districts except Lahore and Multan due to improved air quality, attributed to changes in wind direction and rainfall. Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced that schools will open with safety measures, including mandatory masks and restricted outdoor activities. The Environmental Protection Agency has revised restrictions on dining services, allowing operations until 10 PM. The Met Office forecasts dry and cold weather, with smog likely in some areas.

A tale of environmental neglect, online education failures

The Punjab government's decision to close schools due to poor air quality underscores a dual crisis of environmental neglect and inadequate online education systems. Despite frequent closures, Punjab remains unprepared for online learning, relying on basic tools like WhatsApp and Zoom. Experts call for investment in comprehensive Learning Management Systems to ensure effective online education. The Punjab Information Technology Board is urged to enhance its eLearn initiative, while private schools are encouraged to develop secure LMS platforms to ensure academic continuity and privacy during disruptions.

PU students, guards injured in clash

A clash at Punjab University in Lahore resulted in injuries to students and security guards, highlighting growing concerns over on-campus violence. The incident, captured in a viral video, involved a student organization protesting for better accommodations and fee concessions. The university administration and students exchanged blame, with the administration accusing students of initiating violence, while students claimed the guards provoked the clash. Vice Chancellor Dr. Muhammad Ali condemned the violence and called for strict action against those involved. The incident has sparked calls for accountability from the university's Chancellor.

Police, students injured in mayhem over ‘rape’ incident

In Lahore, protests erupted across multiple campuses of a private college following an alleged rape incident involving a female student and a non-teaching staff member. The protests turned violent, resulting in injuries to students and police officials. The college management denied the incident, calling it false claims on social media, while authorities, including Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, promised thorough investigations. The campus registration was suspended, and classes were disrupted. Social media amplified demands for justice and better security, while the accused guard was taken into police custody. Provincial Information Minister Azma Bokhari emphasized the need for verified information and cautioned against politicizing the incident.

NA-130 witnesses remarkable turnout of female voters

The NA-130 constituency in Lahore witnessed a significant turnout of female voters during the General Elections 2024. Major political parties, including PML-N, PTI, PPP, JI, TLP, and JUI, fielded candidates. The Election Commission of Pakistan set up 376 polling stations, with a notable number dedicated to female voters. The day was marked by lively participation and civic engagement, despite some inappropriate sloganeering by PTI workers. Voters expressed support for various candidates, highlighting PML-N's development projects. The polling process continued peacefully across Lahore.

DPS teachers get notices for protesting on campus

The conflict at Divisional Public School (DPS) Lahore has intensified as the principal issued show-cause notices to teachers protesting against alleged anti-teacher policies. The teachers criticized the administration for eliminating benefits, failing to provide pay raises, and increasing fees, which they claim led to a decline in student admissions. The administration warned of disciplinary action, while teachers assert their right to protest. The principal has not yet responded to inquiries.

Aitchison College principal quits over ‘interference’ by governor

Michael A. Thomson, principal of Aitchison College Lahore, resigned citing prejudiced actions by the Governor's House that led to governance and management breakdown. Thomson's resignation letter highlighted issues of policy manipulation and preferential treatment. The Governor's House denied the allegations, stating fee concessions were not exclusive favors. Federal Minister Ataullah Tarar attempted to mediate. The resignation has sparked protests from parents and students in support of Thomson, who has been praised for his contributions to the college.

Non-recruitment on advertised positions: HEC chief asks VCs to complete hiring within one year

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has directed higher education institutions to complete the recruitment process for advertised teaching and non-teaching staff positions within one year from the date of advertisement. This comes after concerns over extended delays in the recruitment process, sometimes beyond two years. HEC Chairman Prof Dr Mukhtar Ahmed emphasized the importance of staffing HEIs with the best human resources and noted that delays can lead to legal challenges and doubts about the meritocracy of the process. The HEC has also recommended withdrawing positions advertised before March 1, 2022, and completing recruitment for positions advertised after this date by June 30, 2024. The Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) has raised concerns about the HEC's authority post-18th Amendment, but the HEC Chairman clarified that the federal HEC has not prohibited provincial HECs from taking measures to improve HEIs. He also highlighted the issue of over 70 public universities lacking regular vice chancellors, particularly in Punjab, and has reached out to the newly elected Prime Minister and Chief Ministers to address this and other challenges.

Should Punjab's winter break schedule be changed?

The article discusses the mismanagement of winter break scheduling in Punjab, highlighting the lack of coordination between government departments, particularly the Meteorological Office and Education Departments. It criticizes the decision to extend the winter break without considering real-time weather data, leading to a disconnect between the break and actual cold weather. Stakeholders, including parents and educators, call for a more informed decision-making process that aligns the break with genuine cold conditions to prevent educational losses.

Is Punjab extending winter vacations for schools?

Winter vacations for private and public schools in Punjab may be extended due to the cold weather, though no official announcement has been made by the School Education Department (SED) Punjab. The Literacy & Non-Formal Education Department Punjab has notified vacations for its institutions from January 1 to 10, 2024. The final decision on extending the winter break will be made by the Punjab government, leading to widespread discussions and some confusion on social media.