LAHORE: Provincial Minister for Education Punjab Rana Sikandar Hayat attended the Girls Education Fest 2026, organised under the “HER-izon: Strengthening Women’s Educational Leadership” project by Youth Tube, in collaboration with the Punjab Education Curriculum, Training and Assessment Authority (PECTAA).
Addressing the ceremony held in connection with International Education Day, the minister said that girls’ education remains a top priority of the Punjab government. He stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, concrete steps are being taken to strengthen women’s educational leadership across the province.
Rana Sikandar Hayat announced that province-wide sports and speech competitions will be organised in schools across Punjab in February. He also shared that laptops will now be provided to students of private schools as well.
The minister said that the quality of education in public sector schools has significantly improved, adding that the government is implementing comprehensive reforms to ensure access, quality, and retention in girls’ education. He highlighted computer education, student scholarships, and teacher training as key priorities. He also announced Rs300,000 in cash awards for teachers and participating students of the festival.
Speaking on the occasion, Malala Fund Pakistan CEO Dr Nishat Riaz praised the confidence and leadership shown by the participating girls and stressed the need for continued investment in platforms that amplify girls’ voices. She encouraged girls to actively participate in speech, debate, and academic competitions.
The festival featured reel-making, speech, and quiz competitions among students from public sector girls’ schools across Punjab. A total of 105 schools applied, 72 schools participated, and 55 schools qualified for the final rounds.
The event was attended by 210 students, along with education leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives.