Punjab budget 2025–26: Rs148 billion allocated for education sector

LAHORE: The provincial government of Punjab has allocated Rs148 billion for the education sector in the development budget for the fiscal year 2025-26.

While presenting the budget in the Punjab Assembly, Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman unveiled several initiatives to transform the education system.

The allocation includes new projects, expansion of existing programs, and significant investments in infrastructure and financial assistance to students.

One of the key features is the provision of Rs15 billion for merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students. Additionally, the government will continue the undergraduate scholarship program with a budget of Rs5.9 billion, which will enable thousands of deserving university students to pursue higher education.

Emphasizing the critical role of youth investment in the province’s long-term development, the minister said, “Inclusion, access, and excellence are the cornerstones of our education policy.”

To meet the growing infrastructure needs in government schools, Rs40 billion has been allocated for the construction of additional classrooms across Punjab. The move aims to reduce overcrowding and improve the learning environment, especially in underserved rural areas.

An additional Rs35 billion has been allocated for the Education Delivery Program, which aims to improve educational outcomes, teacher training, and the overall quality of education services across the province.