KP Outsources 500 Low-Performing Schools to Private Partners
The KP school outsourcing initiative has moved ahead as the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Elementary and Secondary Education Department handed over 500 low-performing primary schools to private partners. Officials said the plan aims to improve education quality and increase student enrolment across the province.
Phase one implementation begins
Officials confirmed that 273 schools already shifted to private management in the winter zone. Academic activities have started in these schools. In addition, authorities will transfer the remaining 227 schools in the summer zone in September.
The department has also started preparations for a second phase. Under this phase, it plans to outsource another 1,500 schools. Therefore, the overall reform effort will cover a large portion of underperforming institutions.
Several organisations have taken responsibility for these schools. These include Beaconhouse School System, Sarhad Rural Support Programme, Dopasi Foundation, and Hands Foundation. As a result, private sector participation has increased significantly.
New model focuses on performance and access
Officials said schools with fewer than 40 students fall under the low-performing category. They identified 4,147 such schools across the province. However, the current focus remains on phased outsourcing.
Under the agreement, private partners must raise enrolment to 180 students per school. Moreover, they will manage operations, hiring, and academic delivery. They will also handle maintenance and infrastructure needs.
The education department will provide buildings, textbooks, furniture, and support staff. In addition, it will allocate Rs1,500 per enrolled student. Therefore, both sectors share responsibilities under the model.
Private partners must follow the government curriculum and improve learning outcomes. They must also recruit qualified teachers and engage communities to boost enrolment. For example, they will focus on girls’ education and underserved areas.
Officials have also set performance benchmarks for schools. These include clean water, better sanitation, backup power, and regular attendance. Consequently, the KP school outsourcing plan aims to raise standards and improve accountability in public education.
