The Punjab Education Initiative Management Authority (PEIMA) has revoked the licenses of more than 1,600 partner schools across the province, citing newly enforced regulatory requirements, according to a report by 24NewsHD.
The move has sparked significant concern among educational stakeholders, as many of the affected schools were operated by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private individuals. PEIMA has now reopened the application process for re-contracting the schools, setting a deadline of May 10 and requiring an application fee of Rs 10,000.
Sadaqat Hussain Khan Lodhi, the Provincial Convener of PEIMA School Licensees, lashed out at the decision, calling it unjust and politically motivated. “Many of us have poured substantial resources into running these schools under formal three-year contracts. Abruptly canceling our licenses not only disrupts our operations but undermines our investments,” Lodhi stated.
He warned that any attempts to reassign the contracts through political favoritism would face stiff resistance. “This is not just about contracts. It’s about fairness and continuity in education,” he said, demanding that PEIMA reconsider its decision and reinstate the licenses.
Lodhi also threatened province-wide protests if the authority failed to address their concerns, indicating a growing rift between the education body and its long-time partners. PEIMA has yet to issue an official response to the criticism.