The Education Department has begun considering downgrading hundreds of schools in Punjab after poor ninth-grade results and low matriculation enrolment. Officials said schools with fewer than 20 registered students in the board's matric class are under review, with a proposal to restore their status to middle schools.

Lahore schools among those under scrutiny

In Lahore, Government High School Saint Francis New Anarkali has fewer than 10 matric students enrolled, while Government Pakistan Model School Rehmanpura has fewer than 20 registered students.

Government High School Sant Nagar also has very few matric students. The Education Department said hundreds of schools across Punjab have matric enrolment below 20.

Students to be shifted if status withdrawn

If the high-school status is withdrawn, matric students enrolled in such schools will be transferred to nearby schools, officials said.

Lahore CEO warns of action over poor results

Lahore Chief Executive Officer Education Tariq Mahmood said strict action would be taken against schools with poor ninth-grade results, adding that schools with results below 30 percent have been asked to explain their performance.