Need to bridge rural-urban divide in education sector

In conversation with Avneet Kaur, DEO (Secondary) Gurinderjit Kaur says allocating budget for education is a strategic investment in human capital.

In conversation with Avneet Kaur, District Education Officer (Secondary) Gurinderjit Kaur says allocating budget for education is a strategic investment in human capital

Education is the backbone of a progressive society. It drives economic growth, social equity and cultural development. The allocation of public funds toward education is more than just an administrative task — it is a strategic investment in human capital. Adequate and well-targeted funding ensures better infrastructure, inclusive access, quality teaching and stronger learning outcomes. As governments draw up their annual budgets, the portion dedicated to education becomes a critical indicator of a state’s long-term priorities.

In Punjab, the 2025 Budget has allocated nearly 12 per cent of the total state outlay to education. The investment is central to improving the quality of schooling across the state. A large share is being directed toward infrastructure development through schemes such as Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, which focuses on upgrading school buildings, setting up digital classrooms, constructing boundary walls and providing facilities like libraries, science labs and improved sanitation. These efforts aim to make the school environment more conducive to learning.

Model institutions such as Schools of Eminence have been given a significant boost with an allocation of Rs 100 crore. Other experimental models like the Schools of Brilliance (Rs 15 crore), Schools of Applied Learning (Rs 17 crore) and Schools of Happiness (Rs 10 crore) are part of the state’s approach to reimagining school education through diverse pedagogical frameworks. To enhance access, particularly for students from underprivileged backgrounds, the continuation of schemes offering free transportation, books and uniforms has been emphasised. Mission Samarth, with Rs 12 crore allocation, seeks to support academically weaker students through structured remedial programmes and tutorial support.

While these initiatives mark progress, DEO (Secondary) Avneet Kaur underlined the importance of further provisions for teacher training, especially at international platforms. There is also a call for dedicated funds to strengthen inspection and monitoring mechanisms at the block and district levels, ensuring consistency and accountability in school performance.

The rural-urban disparities remain a persistent issue. Despite budgetary provisions, rural areas often lag in infrastructure. Targeted allocations are needed to bridge the divide. In today’s tech-driven world, the integration of digital tools into classrooms is critical. Budgetary support for smart devices, Internet connectivity and online resources is essential to prepare students for the demands of the digital economy.

Scholarship schemes and financial incentives are already in place, but stakeholders note that children from economically weaker sections still face barriers. Guidance and counselling services have been introduced as part of the educational framework, but she suggests expanding the scope and funding of this component to support students’ career and emotional development more effectively. The state has also allocated Rs 980 crore for sports. A more integrated approach between education and sports funding may help nurture talent and promote holistic growth.

Punjab