The Punjab government is likely to extend the contracts of around 25,000 School Teacher Interns (STIs) working in public schools across the province.

The contracts expired on May 22, before the start of the summer holidays. However, the new academic session has begun, while many STIs are still waiting for confirmation about their reappointment or contract extension.

Education department sends summary

Punjab’s education minister had earlier announced that STI contracts would be extended after the summer break. Despite the announcement, the decision has not yet been formally implemented.

The Punjab Education Department has now sent a summary seeking approval for the contract extension. Officials said the contracts will be extended once the summary receives approval from the chief minister.

Teachers highlight shortage

The Punjab Teachers Union has called for an immediate decision on the matter. The union warned that delays in reappointing STIs could further increase the shortage of teachers in government schools.

According to the union, the shortage is already affecting academic activities in public schools, particularly as the new academic session is underway.

Thousands await government decision

STIs have played an important role in supporting teaching activities in Punjab’s public schools. Their contract extension could help schools manage staff shortages and ensure that students continue receiving regular classroom instruction.

The final decision now depends on approval from the Punjab chief minister. Until then, thousands of teacher interns remain uncertain about their employment status and future in the education sector.