Chandigarh: In a step aimed at improving attendance and strengthening monitoring in government schools, the Punjab government has introduced an SMS alert system to keep parents informed about their children’s daily presence in classrooms.
Under the initiative, parents will receive real time messages if their child is marked absent, enabling quicker intervention and closer coordination between families and schools. The move is intended to enhance accountability within the education system and ensure that students attend school regularly.
The system was launched during a statewide parent teacher interaction programme that saw participation from nearly 18 lakh parents, reflecting the government’s push to increase community involvement in education.
Officials said the initiative is expected to play a key role in reducing absenteeism and preventing dropouts, particularly among students from vulnerable sections. By keeping parents informed on a daily basis, authorities aim to address attendance related issues at an early stage.
Education department officials also noted that the use of technology will help teachers monitor attendance trends more efficiently and identify students who may require additional academic or social support.
The initiative forms part of the state’s broader efforts to strengthen public education and improve learning outcomes by making schools more transparent, responsive and student focused.