The Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority has announced strict action against private schools involved in illegal fee collection and policy violations in Islamabad.
Under the new directives, private schools will not be allowed to collect more than one month’s fee in advance from parents. Authorities have warned that schools violating the rules could face heavy fines, audits, and even sealing of the institution.
Officials said charging fees beyond the 12-month academic session has also been declared completely illegal.
Crackdown Against Unregistered Private Schools
Authorities have also launched a major crackdown against unregistered private educational institutions operating illegally in the capital.
According to the regulatory authority, immediate action will be taken against schools functioning without proper registration or violating education laws.
Officials stated that student welfare, transparency, and protection of parents from financial exploitation are top priorities.
“Lighter School Bags Policy” Enforced
In another major decision, Islamabad authorities have implemented the “Lighter School Bags Policy” to protect children’s health.
Under the policy:
- School bag weight must not exceed 10% of a child’s body weight.
- Schools have been directed to reduce unnecessary books and study material.
- The initiative aims to prevent back pain and other health issues among students caused by heavy school bags.
Complaint Cell Established for Parents
A special complaint cell has also been established to address parents’ complaints regarding:
- Illegal fee collection
- Excessive academic burden
- Heavy school bags
- Other school-related violations
The chairman of the authority said there will be “zero tolerance” for exploitation of students and parents, adding that all private schools must strictly follow the law.
