Punjab government has announced a new accountability program against teachers, principals and schools that give poor performances in matriculation results. The move, announced by Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, marks the first time that the School Education Department has officially begun compiling lists of schools and teachers with consistently low performance in grades 9 and 10.

According to the minister, teachers who fail to deliver satisfactory results despite the government’s heavy investment in the education sector will face termination from their jobs. The announcement has stirred debate across the province, with some praising the move as a step toward improving academic standards, while others fear it may put undue pressure on educators already working under challenging conditions.

Billions Spent, But Poor Results Persist

Education remains one of the top priorities for Punjab, with billions of rupees allocated annually for schools, training programs, and infrastructure. Despite these investments, matriculation results across several districts have remained below expectations.

Rana Sikandar Hayat, in his statement on Thursday through social media, expressed his frustration over the situation. He emphasized that poor results can no longer be tolerated and that strict accountability is necessary to ensure quality education for students.

“Taxpayers’ money is being spent in billions, yet the outcomes are disappointing. If schools and teachers cannot deliver, they must be held accountable. We are preparing lists, and teachers consistently producing poor results will be dismissed,” said the minister.

Rewards for High-Performing Teachers

While the accountability measures are tough, the government has also promised to acknowledge and reward teachers who perform well. According to the minister, separate lists of schools and educators achieving excellent results are being compiled, and those teachers will receive recognition and incentives.

The move aims to create a balanced approach—penalizing negligence while motivating hardworking educators. Rana Sikandar Hayat stated that he will personally oversee the accountability process in his district and tehsil to set an example.

Reactions from Teachers and Experts

The announcement has received mixed reactions from teachers, unions, and education experts. Teacher associations argue that holding educators solely responsible for poor results overlooks other major challenges in the education system.

A senior representative of a teachers’ union in Lahore told reporters, “Teachers cannot be the only ones blamed. Many schools suffer from overcrowded classrooms, lack of facilities, outdated syllabi, and even absenteeism from students themselves. Instead of firing teachers, the government should provide more training, resources, and systemic reforms.”

On the other hand, education reform advocates welcomed the decision, calling it a long-overdue step. They argue that poor teaching standards and lack of accountability have plagued government schools for decades, contributing to low literacy and dropout rates. “Without accountability, there is no improvement. If some teachers are negligent, they must be replaced with those who are willing to perform,” said one education analyst.

Possible Impacts on Punjab’s Education System

If implemented effectively, the accountability plan could significantly change the way Punjab’s public schools operate. By introducing both penalties and rewards, the government aims to encourage a culture of responsibility.

Experts predict several possible outcomes:

Improved Results: Fear of dismissal may push teachers to work harder and adopt better teaching strategies.

Performance-Based Culture: Recognition and rewards for high-performing teachers may inspire others to improve.

Increased Pressure: On the downside, the pressure could lead to stress among teachers, and some may resort to unfair practices just to show better results.

Need for Systemic Reforms: Critics argue that unless deeper structural issues—such as curriculum updates, training, and classroom resources—are addressed, the accountability drive alone may not deliver sustainable improvements.

Government’s Next Steps

The School Education Department is currently finalizing the lists of teachers and schools under review. Once completed, action will be taken against those identified with persistently poor outcomes. The department has also announced that a transparent monitoring system will be implemented to ensure fairness.

Meanwhile, educators who secure excellent performance will be formally acknowledged. The minister stated that these teachers will not only be rewarded but also presented as role models for others.

Rana Sikandar Hayat reiterated that his primary goal is to ensure that Punjab’s children receive the quality education they deserve. “This is not just about punishing teachers; it’s about setting standards. Good teachers will be rewarded, and those who fail to perform despite repeated chances will have to go home. We owe this much to our students and parents,” he said.