Students Still Waiting for Free Textbooks Despite Starting of New Academic Year
The new academic year started on April 1st, yet matriculation (Matric) students at Punjab government institutions are yet to get their textbooks 24 days later.
Parents and students are irritated by the delay, which impacts new courses that were added this year, such as computer, fashion design, health sciences, and agriculture.
Though they are upset by the dearth of books, students are supposed to begin these studies in Class 9. Maryam Nawaz, the chief minister of Punjab, has been urged by many to guarantee prompt delivery.
Even if the syllabus is available online, 90% of kids at government schools do not have access to a cell phone or the internet, which makes it difficult for them to study or finish their assignments, according to parents.
However, the Punjab School Education Department asserts that matriculation textbook production is underway and guarantees delivery in a week.
This delay is reminiscent of previous situations, such as Punjab’s textbook shortfall in 2021, when books came months late because of logistical concerns.
Critics contend that in order to prevent interfering with students’ education, the department ought to have done more preparation, particularly after introducing new courses in January.
