Thousands of female teachers across Punjab are expressing frustration and disappointment after the government’s much-publicized scooter initiative failed to receive funding in the 2025–26 provincial budget. The School Education Department (SED) Punjab had earlier announced plans to provide scooters to women teachers to ease their commutes, but the absence of financial backing has left the project in limbo.
The initiative, initially introduced with much fanfare by the provincial education minister, aimed to improve punctuality and reduce daily travel hardships faced by women educators, particularly in rural and remote areas. However, the omission of any budgetary allocation has sparked criticism and skepticism among teachers and education stakeholders alike.
“This isn’t just about transportation—it’s about respect and support for our profession,” said a female teacher from southern Punjab. “We were promised relief, and now we’re left wondering whether our needs are ever truly considered.”
The silence from policymakers has deepened concerns. Teachers’ unions and advocacy groups are now urging the government to revisit its commitment and make provisions for the scheme, warning that failure to do so could erode trust in future reform announcements.
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As the new academic year approaches, the fate of the scooter initiative remains uncertain—casting a shadow over what many hoped would be a landmark step toward empowering women in education. For now, the promise rides on empty.