LAHORE:The Punjab School Education Department (SED) has issued new guidelines regarding outdoor trips and recreational excursions for public and private schools.
According to the guidelines, traveling on highways or through hilly areas at night during adverse weather conditions is prohibited. Furthermore, obtaining approval from the relevant District Education Authority prior to any educational trip has been made mandatory.
The Department has instructed schools to secure written consent from parents, along with emergency contact numbers, before undertaking such trips. School administrations are also required to submit a complete itinerary, transport details, and a list of participating students to the relevant authority.
The guidelines mandate the presence of a senior teacher or group in-charge during educational trips. Additionally, the presence of a senior female teacher is required whenever female students are part of the group. A supervision ratio of one teacher for every 15 students has been established.
The Department has directed that only vehicles possessing valid fitness certificates and commercial permits be used for these trips. Students are required to carry their school identification cards, which must include emergency contact numbers and their blood group.
School staff have been instructed to carry first-aid kits and maintain records of students’ medical information. During educational excursions, students are prohibited from visiting unauthorized locations or straying from their group; furthermore, the possession of tobacco, weapons, or dangerous items is strictly forbidden.
Furthermore, the School Education Department has directed that, upon returning from an excursion, students must submit a report, project, or presentation. Additionally, it must be ensured that all issued guidelines are strictly implemented across both public and private schools.