Punjab’s Education Reform Gets World Bank Backing
₹3,500-crore programme to focus on learning outcomes, digital guidance and global standards
Chandigarh: Punjab has partnered with the World Bank to roll out the second phase of its ambitious education overhaul, with a total outlay of ₹3,500 crore aimed at transforming public schooling over the next six years.
The initiative, titled ‘Sikhya Kranti 2.0’, combines a ₹2,500 crore loan from the World Bank with ₹1,000 crore from the state government, marking one of the largest investments in the education sector in the region. The programme seeks to align Punjab’s school system with global benchmarks through structural and outcome focused reforms.
The mission will prioritise strengthening foundational learning by improving literacy and numeracy through better pedagogy and structured assessments. It also aims to expand access to science and commerce streams while upgrading vocational education to meet evolving industry demands.
A key component of the reform is the introduction of a statewide digital career guidance platform, designed to provide students with personalised aptitude assessments and counselling support.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the collaboration reflects growing confidence in Punjab’s education model, following strong performance in national assessments. He added that the next phase will focus on improving employability and preparing students to compete at a global level.
