Government higher secondary schools across Punjab have witnessed a 90% decline in admissions after matriculation, according to recently reported enrollment figures.

The data shows that only around 56,000 students enrolled in 11th class at government higher secondary schools this year, despite more than 600,000 students studying in 10th class across government schools in the province.

Students shift to colleges after matric

The figures indicate that more than 550,000 students chose colleges instead of continuing their education at government higher secondary schools after completing matriculation.

The significant shift has raised concerns about the future of Punjab government schools offering higher secondary education. The trend also highlights growing competition between government schools and colleges for students entering intermediate-level education.

Higher secondary schools face challenge

The sharp difference in enrollment has emerged as a major challenge for Punjab’s education system. Government higher secondary schools are losing a large proportion of students at the transition from matric to intermediate education.

Earlier Punjab education data has also shown a substantial gap between enrollment levels at different stages, particularly at the higher-secondary level.

Punjab education system under pressure

The latest figures could prompt authorities to examine why students prefer colleges over government higher secondary schools and whether improvements are needed in facilities, academic programmes and teaching standards.

The enrollment shift may also influence future education planning and resource allocation across Punjab.