Key Takeaways
- The Sindh government has issued a warning to private schools against unauthorized fee increases.
- Institutions found violating the rules could face suspension or cancellation of their registration.
- School administrations are directed to strictly follow approved fee structures and display them prominently.
The Sindh government has warned private schools against increasing fees or collecting unauthorized charges, emphasizing that such actions could result in severe consequences. In a directive issued to all private school heads, Additional Director General of Private Institutions Prof Rafia Mallah reminded institutions that charging any fee other than the approved tuition fee without prior approval is a violation of the Sindh Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2005.
The notification also stated that collecting tuition fees in violation of the rules or imposing additional charges without approval is a punishable offense under the Sindh Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Control) Ordinance, 2001. The directive aims to ensure transparency and prevent hidden charges from being imposed on parents.
School administrations have been directed to strictly follow the approved fee structure, display it prominently on notice boards and at reception areas, and provide copies to parents upon request. The authorities reiterated that collecting hidden or extra charges beyond the approved fee is strictly prohibited. Schools found violating the rules will face legal action, including the suspension or cancellation of their registration.
The Sindh government has also directed all unregistered private schools to apply for registration through the official online portal within 15 days. The notification further advised individuals and organizations planning to establish new schools to ensure they meet all standards and requirements set by the Sindh School Education Department before applying for registration. Institutions that fail to meet the required criteria will not be registered and may be shut down through the district administration, with affected students shifted to nearby schools.
The warning comes after complaints that some private schools have increased fees beyond the approved limits or imposed hidden charges on parents without obtaining permission from the registration authority. The directive is part of a broader effort by the Sindh government to regulate and control private educational institutions in the province.
