Female teachers in Sialkot will soon be receiving electric bikes to help ease their daily commute, a landmark initiative that combines women’s empowerment with sustainable transport. The program, launched with support from the local business community, reflects Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision of providing safer, affordable, and environmentally friendly mobility for women educators across Punjab.
Overwhelming Response from Teachers
Applications for the scheme were invited earlier this month, and the response has been impressive. More than 650 female teachers applied before the August 10 deadline, demonstrating strong interest in the initiative.
The eligibility criteria included:
- An upper age limit of 35 years.
- Both permanent and contract teachers could apply.
- Priority given to widows, divorced women, and sole earners of their households.
Transparent Distribution Process
To ensure fairness, the e-bikes will be distributed through a computerized ballot. This transparent mechanism ensures equal opportunity for all applicants.
Earlier, as part of Independence Day celebrations, the district administration had distributed e-bikes to 14 female teachers with the support of donors, marking the first phase of the project.
Benefits Beyond Mobility
Officials highlight that the scheme will not only improve daily commuting for female educators but also contribute to broader social and environmental goals:
- Safer transportation for women in semi-urban and rural areas.
- Economic relief for teachers struggling with rising transport costs.
- Reduced environmental pollution, thanks to the use of clean-energy electric vehicles.
A Model for Other Districts
The Sialkot e-bike project has the potential to become a model for other districts in Punjab, encouraging greater female workforce participation and setting a precedent for sustainable, women-focused transport solutions.
As the first batch of recipients prepares to be selected through the ballot, anticipation is building that this initiative will redefine daily mobility for hundreds of teachers while promoting green energy in Pakistan.
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