The Punjab government has reportedly ended free nursing education in public sector colleges, introducing tuition fees and hostel charges for students who were previously studying at no cost. The move marks a major shift in provincial education and health policy and has raised concern among students and healthcare professionals.
Along with paid education, monthly stipends for nursing students have also been discontinued. These stipends were a key source of financial support, especially for students from low income backgrounds. Many fear the decision could discourage talented candidates from entering the nursing profession at a time when the healthcare system already faces staff shortages.
Under the revised admission policy, only students with at least 50 percent marks in FSc and a Punjab domicile will be eligible to apply. The new criteria tighten access and limit opportunities for students from other provinces.
Gender based changes have also been introduced. Shahdara Teaching Hospital’s nursing college will now admit male students only, a decision that has sparked debate about equal access and workforce planning in the nursing sector.
According to available details, public nursing colleges across Punjab offer around 3,100 seats in morning shifts and 3,000 seats in evening shifts. Smaller numbers of seats are allocated in colleges attached to teaching hospitals and district headquarters hospitals.
Critics argue that ending free education may worsen the nursing shortage and place added pressure on families already struggling with rising education costs. Supporters of the policy claim that fee based programs could help improve facilities and training standards if funds are managed properly.
The Punjab government has yet to issue a detailed public explanation, but the decision is likely to remain under scrutiny as admissions begin.
