A Comparison of Facilities Provided by Meritorious and Government Schools in Punjab

This study undertakes a comparison of the infrastructural, health & hygiene, and safety-related facilities in Meritorious and Government schools to assess existing disparities within the state-funded education system. Education at the secondary level is pivotal for both individual growth and national development; however, variations in institutional resources often hinder equitable educational outcomes. The research encompassed all ten Meritorious schools in Punjab and an equal number of Government schools selected from the same districts. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to students and teachers, complemented by direct on-site observations. Findings revealed disparities in all three domains. Meritorious schools demonstrated superior physical infrastructure, including well-maintained buildings, parking areas, ramps for differently-abled students, and hygienic canteen facilities. In the domain of health and hygiene, these schools ensured regular health check-ups, access to emergency medical care, and adequate first-aid and rest facilities, unlike many Government schools. Enhanced safety provisions—such as fire extinguishers and routine safety drills—were also more prevalent in Meritorious schools. The study concludes that these advantages result from focused administrative attention and targeted financial support, underscoring the urgent need to upgrade facilities in regular Government schools to achieve equitable educational standards across Punjab.