Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced the activation of a free lunch programme for students attending government schools in Islamabad. The initiative aims to improve students’ nutrition while supporting broader efforts to strengthen public education and provide a safer learning environment.
During a high-level meeting on October 28, the prime minister directed authorities to introduce the programme alongside urgent reforms in school infrastructure, curriculum and teacher training. He also instructed Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal to resolve identified problems in the capital’s government schools within one week.
Smart Boards and School Facilities to Improve
The prime minister ordered the installation of smart boards in government schools to improve classroom learning and teaching methods. He also called for a comprehensive strategy to make the Federal Directorate of Education more effective.
Furthermore, Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to ensure that teachers focus exclusively on educational activities rather than performing unrelated duties. He stressed that recruitment must take place strictly on merit to strengthen teaching standards.
The government also plans to address infrastructure shortcomings identified through a recent survey of Islamabad’s public schools. Although most institutions have internet connectivity, clean drinking water and computer laboratories, some schools still require improvements.
Transport and Accessibility Measures Included
The prime minister also called for expanding government school bus services to make transportation easier for students. Officials informed the meeting that 278 government buses were already operating across Islamabad, while authorities were directed to consider outsourcing transport services with third-party validation.
In addition, the government plans to promote solar energy in schools and install ramps to improve access for students with physical disabilities. Shehbaz Sharif also emphasised the need to provide quality medical facilities within educational institutions.
These measures form part of a wider effort to improve school conditions and student welfare across the federal capital. However, officials have yet to announce a detailed implementation schedule or the specific budget allocated for the free lunch programme.
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