Grant of Second Maternity Leave with Full Pay for Extended Contracts – Official Notification

The School Education Department, Government of Punjab, has issued a crucial notification addressing the challenges faced by female Educators and Assistant Education Officers (AEOs) working on extended contract periods.

• Issued By: School Education Department, Government of Punjab
• Notification No.: SO(SE-III)5-198/2024
• Dated: November 4, 2024

Background

Previously, female educators and AEOs appointed on a five-year contractual basis were entitled to a maximum of 90 days of maternity leave with full pay, as per Clause 5(ii) of their appointment terms. However, it was observed that individuals whose contracts were extended beyond the initial five years were not granted additional maternity leave, causing significant difficulties.

Revised Policy

The Competent Authority has now clarified the following:

1. Eligibility for Second Maternity Leave:
   Female Educators and AEOs who have completed their initial five-year contractual period and are serving under an extended contract are now entitled to an additional 90 days of maternity leave with full pay during the second tenure of their contract.
2. Scope:
   This benefit applies only after the successful completion of the first five-year tenure and upon the renewal or extension of the contract by the Competent Authority.

Implementation Guidelines

The notification, addressed to all Chief Executive Officers (DEAs) in Punjab, directs that requests for a second maternity leave under these updated terms be processed promptly. It ensures that eligible female educators are not subjected to undue hardships and are granted their rightful leave entitlements.

This policy update represents a progressive step by the Government of Punjab in supporting female educators and addressing their needs during extended contracts. It reinforces the government’s commitment to providing equitable and humane working conditions for its workforce.

Educators and AEOs facing challenges regarding maternity leave are encouraged to consult their respective DEAs for further guidance and application procedures.

For further information, refer to Notification No. SO(SE-III)5-198/2024, dated November 4, 2024.

This revised notification highlights the government’s recognition of the importance of work-life balance and its efforts to accommodate the needs of women in the education sector.