LAHORE: A total of 61,304 students were sworn in as elected officials of student councils in 15,326 elementary and high public schools across Punjab on 17th May.
The elections for student councils were held early this month in public schools of all districts of Punjab.
The Punjab School Education Department (SED) successfully conducted elections in 15,326 elementary and high schools, empowering 3.18 million students to elect 61,304 leaders, including presidents, vice-presidents, general secretaries and finance secretaries.
The electoral process was overseen by deputy commissioners, additional deputy commissioners and officers from district education authorities.
The elections were organised on the pattern of general elections in the country and entailed nomination of candidates, election campaigns, and use of ballots and casting of votes.
The oath-taking ceremonies, held at selected schools in every district and tehsil, marked a key initiative by the SED to promote leadership, responsibility and democratic values among students.
The events saw the presence of high-ranking officials, including deputy commissioners, who attended as chief guests on the directives of the SED.
The additional deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners, chief executive officers (education), and district education officers also participated, underscoring the government’s commitment to empowering young students.
The newly-elected student council members comprising presidents, vice presidents, general secretaries and finance secretaries took oath to uphold their responsibilities with integrity.
Officials emphasised that the councils would play a crucial role in developing leadership qualities among students, enhancing decision-making and organisational skills, encouraging students to voice and resolve their issues constructively and building confidence and teamwork through structured responsibilities.
“These councils are not just about school governance, they are training grounds for future leaders who will serve at national and provincial levels,” remarked a senior education officer, Mazharul Haq Khwaja.
The initiative also aims to strengthen democratic principles by allowing students to experience fair elections and representation, provide exposure to co-curricular activities, helping students grow beyond academics and highlight hidden talents and encourage holistic development.
“Student councils uphold the best traditions of discipline, responsibility and teamwork,” said a participating teacher. “This system prepares children for real-world challenges.”
With this large-scale induction of young leaders, the education department hopes to create a more engaged and proactive student community. The initiative reflects a broader vision to cultivate capable, confident and civic-minded individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society.
As the new council members begin their terms, all eyes are on these young leaders to bring about a positive change not just in their schools, but as future torchbearers of the nation.
Published in Dawn, May 18th, 2025
