Equal Distribution of Schools and Monitoring of AEOs

The Directorate of Public Instruction (EE) Punjab, Lahore, has issued a significant directive dated 17-12-2024 regarding the equal distribution of schools and strict monitoring of Assistant Education Officers (AEOs) across Punjab. This directive highlights key concerns and necessary steps to ensure effective school inspection and monitoring in the region.

The School Education Department has observed that 3258 Assistant Education Officers (AEOs) are working under the District Education Authorities (DEAs) in Punjab. However, it has been noted that their workload is not equally distributed, creating disparities in inspection and monitoring effectiveness.

Instructions for Compliance

To address this, the department has issued strict instructions to ensure uniform work distribution and improved performance among AEOs. Below are the directives:

1. Redistribution of Schools:
   • The number of schools assigned to each AEO must be redistributed to ensure fair and effective monitoring.
   • Each AEO should have 12 to 15 schools within their respective Markaz/Circle.
2. Regular Visits by AEOs:
   • AEOs must ensure regular visits to Primary, Elementary, High, and Higher Secondary Schools as per the department’s job descriptions and indicators.
3. Classroom Observation Tools (COT):
   • AEOs are required to use COT during their visits to assess and support teaching and learning processes, particularly for primary classes.
4. Supervision of AEOs:
   • Fieldwork by AEOs must be supervised by:
     • Deputy District Education Officers (DDEOs) on a fortnightly basis.
     • District Education Officers (DEOs) on a monthly basis.
5. Visits to Outsourced Schools:
   • AEOs must also ensure visits to recently outsourced schools under the Public School Reform Program (PSRP).
6. Approval of Inspection Allowances:
   • Inspection allowances for AEOs will be subject to satisfactory performance in monitoring and reporting.
   • Non-compliance with these directions may result in disciplinary action under the PEEDA Act 2006 against the relevant officers.

Compliance Report Submission

All Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of District Education Authorities (DEAs) are directed to submit compliance reports by 20-12-2024 to the School Education Department. Copies must also be sent to the Directorate of Public Instruction (EE) for monitoring purposes.

Impact of the Directive

This initiative will result in:

• Improved workload management for AEOs.
• Better inspection and monitoring of schools.
• Enhanced focus on the teaching and learning process at the primary level.
• Strengthened accountability and transparency among education officers.

Conclusion

The equal distribution of schools and strict monitoring of AEOs are essential for the quality of education in Punjab. By implementing these directives, the School Education Department aims to ensure fair workloads, effective supervision, and improved school performance across all districts.