Punjab Education Department Issues New Safety Rules for School Trips

The Punjab School Education Department has issued new guidelines for outdoor trips and recreational tours organized by public and private schools across the province. The directives aim to enhance student safety during educational excursions.

Under the new rules, schools must obtain prior approval from the relevant District Education Authority before planning any educational tour. Additionally, traveling on highways and in hilly areas at night during bad weather has been banned. Schools are required to secure written consent from parents and provide emergency contact numbers before trips.

The guidelines mandate that a senior teacher or group in-charge must accompany every tour, and a senior female teacher must be present when female students are participating. A teacher-to-student ratio of 1:15 has been set. Only vehicles with valid fitness certificates and commercial permits are allowed for transportation.

Students must carry school identity cards displaying emergency contact numbers and blood group information. School staff are instructed to carry a first aid kit and maintain records of students' medical details. During tours, students are not permitted to visit unapproved locations or separate from the group, and carrying tobacco, weapons, or dangerous items is strictly prohibited.

Upon return, students are required to submit a report, project, or presentation about the trip. The School Education Department has directed that all instructions be strictly implemented in both public and private schools. These measures are expected to ensure safer and more organized educational trips for students across Punjab.