SCHOOL COUNCILS IN PUNJAB: EVALUATING THEIR IMPACT ON SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION AND THE CHALLENGES AHEAD

Abstract

This study investigates the role of school councils in school administration in Punjab, Pakistan, focusing on their effectiveness, challenges, and opportunities through a quantitative lens. A structured survey was conducted with 180 head teachers, school council chairpersons, and parent members across primary, elementary, and high schools. Data were collected using a closed-ended questionnaire based on the framework provided by the School Council Policy 2013. The analysis revealed that while school councils exist in most schools, their functional effectiveness remains limited. Key challenges include low community awareness, limited participation, lack of training, and minimal authority in decision-making. However, respondents acknowledged the potential of school councils in improving accountability, student enrolment, and school infrastructure—provided that systemic support and capacity-building measures are introduced. The findings suggest that strengthening school councils through clear role definitions and enhanced community engagement can significantly improve collaborative school governance in Punjab’s public education system.