SHC Orders Sindh Govt to Implement Laptop Scheme for Students
The Sindh High Court (SHC) Sukkur bench has directed the provincial government to establish and implement a formal laptop policy to provide digital devices to students across Sindh. This decision aims to support modern learning requirements and bridge the digital divide in education within the province.
The court’s order, issued in a detailed written judgment, was made in response to a petition filed by Advocate Sohail Memon. The bench, consisting of Justice Amjad Ali Bohio and Justice Ali Haiderada, stressed the critical role of digital devices in contemporary education. It underscored the importance of aligning educational resources with Article 25A of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to education.
In their ruling, the judges emphasized that the new policy must be integrated into the provincial budget for the upcoming financial year. They directed the Chief Secretary of Sindh to finalize the laptop scheme within 45 days, insisting that consultation with all relevant educational institutions is necessary to ensure a transparent and practical rollout.
The SHC bench further instructed that laptops should be distributed solely on merit. This measure is intended to provide equitable access to digital learning tools, focusing on hardworking students and promoting fairness in educational opportunities.
A progress report detailing the implementation of the laptop distribution policy must be submitted by August 4, 2026. Additionally, government officials have been tasked with preparing a clear execution framework and ensuring that adequate funding is allocated during the next budget cycle.
This court directive marks a significant step toward the digital modernization of the public education system in Sindh, helping to reduce the technology gap among students and enhance the quality of education through access to digital devices.
With a strict timeline in place, the Sindh government is expected to expedite policy formulation, secure budget approvals, and initiate implementation to ensure students benefit from improved digital learning resources.