Punjab Bans Smoking in Government and Private Schools
Lahore – The Punjab School Education Department has officially banned smoking in all government and private schools across the province. The decision is part of a wider initiative to promote a healthy environment for students and staff and to curb tobacco use among youth.
According to the official notification, the ban applies to all school premises, including classrooms, playgrounds, offices, and surrounding areas. Authorities emphasized that strict penalties will be imposed on anyone found violating the policy, including teachers, staff, or visitors. Smoking areas in schools, if any, are to be removed, and awareness programs are to be conducted to educate students on the dangers of tobacco use.
Education officials stated that the policy aims to protect children from secondhand smoke exposure and instill healthy habits early in life. “Schools should be safe spaces for learning. By banning smoking, we are safeguarding students’ health and setting an example for the community,” said a senior official.
Health experts have welcomed the move, highlighting that early intervention and creating smoke-free environments are crucial steps in preventing tobacco addiction and related health issues. Parents and school administrators have been urged to support the policy and actively participate in awareness campaigns.
The education department has also instructed schools to organize seminars, workshops, and activities to reinforce the anti-smoking message, ensuring that the ban is both effective and educational. Compliance checks will be conducted periodically to monitor adherence to the policy.
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خلاصہ (اردو میں):
پنجاب حکومت نے صوبے کے تمام سرکاری اور پرائیویٹ اسکولوں میں سگریٹ نوشی پر پابندی عائد کر دی ہے تاکہ طلباء اور عملے کے لیے صحت مند ماحول قائم کیا جا سکے۔
