The Directorate of Public Instructions (Colleges), Punjab, Lahore, has issued instructions for the implementation of free education for disabled students in public sector colleges across Punjab. Under the directions issued on 18 August 2026, colleges have been instructed to provide full waiver of tuition fee, admission fee, examination fee and other academic charges for registered disabled students from the academic year 2026-27 and onward. The directive also requires colleges to display notices regarding the free education policy, designate a focal person for students with disabilities and submit a compliance report by 30 August 2026.
DIRECTORATE OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTIONS
(COLLEGES), PUNJAB, LAHORE
No. 26006 / AD(Inquiry-F)
Dated: 18 AUG 2026
All the Principals of Education (Colleges), Punjab.
Subject: IMPLEMENTATION OF FREE EDUCATION FOR DISABLED STUDENTS AS PER GOVERNMENT OF PUNJAB ACT 2020
I am writing to bring to your attention and seek compliance regarding the provision of free education for students with disabilities in all public sector colleges of Punjab. It has come to the notice of undersigned that some public sector colleges are charging fee from disabled students which is a clear violation of “THE PUNJAB RIGHT TO EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES, ACT 2020”. It clearly says:
2. “The Government shall ensure provision of free education from primary to higher secondary level (age 5-16) as well as higher education to children with disabilities. The child or parent shall not be liable to pay any kind of fee or charges or expenses for completing the education.”
3. Moreover, as per the “Punjab Disabled Persons (Employment and Rehabilitation) (Amendment) Act, 2020” and the policy directives of the Government of Punjab, Social Welfare & Bait-ul-Maal Department, the Government of Punjab is committed to ensuring inclusive and barrier-free education for persons with disabilities.
Key provisions of the Act and policy include:
- Free Tuition Fee and Admission Fee for all students with disabilities enrolled in public sector educational institutions of Punjab.
- Provision of scholarships, assistive devices, and other learning support as may be notified by the Government from time to time.
- Non-discrimination in admission and ensuring accessible infrastructure in colleges.
4. In light of the above, it is requested that all public sector colleges under your jurisdiction ensure the following with immediate effect:
i. Full waiver of tuition fee, admission fee, examination fee, and other academic charges for all registered disabled students for the academic year 2026-2027 and onward.
ii. Display a notice on college notice boards and website regarding free education policy for disabled students so that eligible students and parents are aware.
iii. Designate a Focal Person in each college to facilitate admission and support services for students with disabilities.
iv. Submit a compliance report* to this office by 30th August 2026 detailing the number of disabled students enrolled and availing free education.
5. This initiative is aligned with the vision of an inclusive Punjab where no student is deprived of education due to disability or financial constraints.
6. Your prompt action in the matter and cooperation in ensuring that the rights of students with disabilities are fully protected will be highly appreciated.
ABDUL WAHEED TABISH
ADDL: DIRECTOR PUBLIC INSTRUCTION
(COLLEGES), PUNJAB, LAHORE
C.C:
- PA to Director Public Instruction (Colleges), Punjab.
- All the Divisional Directors of Education (Colleges), Punjab.
- Office File.
