The Punjab Government has introduced a new initiative aimed at improving educational inclusion for minority students, particularly from the Christian community.
Under the new policy, non-Muslim students will now be able to study their own religious education instead of being required to take Islamic Studies or general Ethics.
The Punjab Education Curriculum Training and Assessment Authority (PECTAA) has approved Christian Religious Education textbooks developed by Educating Youth Publication. These books will be used for students from grades 1 to 8, as well as grades 11 and 12.
In addition to Christian studies, the authority has also approved religious education content for other minority groups. Subjects including Hinduism, Sikhism, Kalasha Taleem, and Buddhism have been approved for grades 1 to 3, while Zoroastrianism will be taught from grades 1 to 5.
The decision marks a shift from the previous system and introduces tailored religious education aligned with the beliefs of minority communities.
According to the official notification, these textbooks will be implemented across both public and private schools in Punjab for eligible students.
Officials have described the move as a significant step toward strengthening minority rights in education and promoting a more inclusive learning environment across the province.
