LAKKI MARWAT: The district education department has directed the heads of local schools to ensure the attendance of teachers and students warning the absentees will be dealt with strictly.

The directions were issued by district education officer Haziqur Rehman during a meeting at the Government Higher Secondary School, Tajazai, on Tuesday.

Senior education officials including Ikramullah Khan, Hashim Khan and Qadeer Shah were also in attendance.

The DEO said he was committed to ensuring end to absenteeism from schools on part of teaching and non-teaching staff.

“Absent employees will face deduction in salary and other punishments,” he said.

Mr. Rehman also urged the heads of the schools to cooperate with the respective educational boards for the smooth and transparent holding of fifth grade and matriculation examinations.

“It is the responsibility of the school heads and teachers to check use of unfair means in examinations,” he said.

The DEO directed the school heads to focus on the strengthening of the security of their respective premises.

“The school heads should keep a liaison with the district administration and police for help in case of emergency,” he said.

Mr. Rehman also issued directives for the transparent utilisation of school funds.

He directed school heads to fix boards on campus to show details of the ongoing projects and used funds.

The DEO said the department would provide schools with new furniture and adequate funds to repair old one.

Published in Dawn, February 17th, 2016