KARACHI: The Sindh government has decided to keep schools closed until March 31 in response to rising fuel prices linked to the escalating war situation in the Middle East.
Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon announced that all educational institutions across the province will remain closed from March 16 to March 31. However, he clarified that scheduled examinations will be held on time despite the closure of schools.
He further stated that colleges and universities will continue academic activities through online classes during this period.
The spokesperson for the Chief Minister said the provincial cabinet has also approved a digital monitoring system for schools, introducing the Student Attendance Monitoring and Redress System Policy.
According to the spokesperson, a mobile application and digital dashboard will be used to maintain records of students’ attendance and admissions. The new system aims to reduce absenteeism and lower dropout rates among students.
The cabinet was informed during the briefing that the digital monitoring system will be implemented in all schools across Sindh within one year.
Meanwhile, Sindh government has decided to implement a work-from-home policy for government offices on Fridays in view of the regional situation and the ongoing energy crisis.
Addressing a press conference in Karachi, Senior Provincial Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said the decision aims to reduce fuel consumption and ease the impact of rising energy costs.
He also announced that provincial ministers have voluntarily decided to forgo their salaries and allowances for three months. Under the decision, ministers will not receive salaries for April, May and June.
The minister reiterated that the Sindh government has already decided to close educational institutions from March 16 to March 31, although examinations will be conducted according to schedule.
Sharjeel Memon clarified that government offices will not be closed on Fridays, but employees will perform their duties from home.
He further said that ministers have surrendered police security vehicles, while a ban has been imposed on the purchase of new vehicles and furniture for government departments. In addition, refreshments in government offices will remain suspended for two months as part of austerity measures.
The provincial minister said the government’s priority is to ensure fuel conservation. A meeting with transporters will be held to discuss the issue, he added.
Sharjeel Memon also noted that the increase in petroleum prices has adversely affected the public. He warned that action is being taken against transporters who increased fares on their own, adding that some have already been arrested.
