Tobacco use banned in schools across Punjab

LAHORE:School Education Department (SED) Punjab has imposed an immediate and complete ban on use on all tobacco and nicotine products, including emerging products (i.e. cigarettes, vapes, heated tobacco products and nicotine pouches) in all educational institutions (public & private) across Punjab.

A notification has been issued in this regard according to which there shall be a 'Zero Tolerance Policy against drugs use in all educational institutions'. Strict action will be taken for any delinquency /non-compliance and those found responsible, will be dealt with stern hands in accordance with law.

However, the notification did not clarify whether the ban applies to everyone involved with schools, such as students, teachers, and non-teaching staff. If it includes teachers and staff, they would no longer be allowed to smoke cigarettes on school premises.