Punjab education minister defends govt performance

Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat on Monday responded to criticism by the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and said that the debate should focus on education, health and public service instead of politics, reported 24NewsHD TV Channel.

Addressing a press conference, Rana Sikandar claimed Punjab's education reforms were being appreciated across the country and added that students from other provinces were coming to Punjab for education.

He said the Punjab government has announced the construction of 5,700 schools in the first phase, where around 530,000 children are currently studying. He also claimed that student enrolment has increased by 30 per cent.

Sikandar said the Punjab government has introduced transparent examination reforms by marking five million papers for the first time, while also providing free university education to students.

Sikandar criticised the PPP's performance in Sindh and advised the party to focus on improving education, health and public services in the province.