3 Shahkot primary schools await funds as students study in makeshift spaces

Three government primary schools in Shahkot are still awaiting the release of sanctioned funds, leaving students to study in temporary arrangements despite repeated assurances from the authorities.

The affected schools — Government Primary School (GPS)-Sidhupur, GPS-Janian Chahal and GPS-Chak Wadala -- have reportedly been declared unsafe for regular classes. However, even months after funds were sanctioned for reconstruction, no construction work has begun.

According to information, Rs 43.9 lakh has been sanctioned for GPS-Jania Chahal, while Rs 57 lakh has been approved for GPS-Chak Wadala. Despite the approvals, the projects remain stalled due to various reasons.

Sources said the Public Works Department (PWD) was initially assigned the responsibility of constructing the building of GPS-Janian Chahal, but the task is now likely to be handed over to another department, further delaying the process.

In the meantime, students continue to face hardships. Children of GPS-Sidhupur are currently attending classes in a village Panchayat Ghar. Students of GPS-Janian Chahal are studying outside classrooms, while those enrolled at GPS-Chak Wadala have been shifted to a nearby residential house to continue their education.

Deputy District Education Officer (Dy DEO) Munish Sharma stated that the grants would be released at the earliest. “The department is actively working on the matter. The construction work will begin soon,” he assured.

Meanwhile, Shahkot MLA Hardev Singh Laddi Sherowalia expressed concern, urging the government to take concrete action. “There is much talk about ‘Sikhya Kranti’, but there must be visible work on the ground,” he said.

Residents and parents have demanded immediate intervention, stressing that students’ safety and education should not suffer due to administrative delays.

It is difficult for the school authorities as well to teach students properly in such circumstances.