Private Schools in Punjab Implement Major Fee Hikes

Numerous private schools in Punjab have announced significant hikes in their monthly fees and introduced substantial annual charges as the new academic year begins. Parents are now faced with additional financial pressures, with monthly fees rising by Rs1,000 to Rs2,000 and annual charges reaching as high as Rs20,000. These increases have raised concerns, as they appear to be in violation of existing government regulations designed to control fee structures in private institutions. The students can get latest updates of Private Schools in Punjab Implement Major Fee Hikes, Adding Financial Strain on Parents.

New Transport Charges and Legal Issues

In accordance with a Lahore High Court ruling, several prominent private school chains have started imposing transport charges, citing the need to provide transportation services to students. However, many parents are frustrated by the lack of action from district education authorities and the provincial education ministry to prevent these unauthorized fee hikes.

Defending the Fee Hikes

Kashif Adeeb Jawadani, president of the All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association, defended the fee increases, asserting that they were in line with legal requirements and the schools’ internal policies. Despite this defense, many parents continue to voice their opposition, arguing that these fees place an unfair burden on families.

Violation of Government Fee Regulations

Under the current private schools ordinance, educational institutions are prohibited from charging fees beyond tuition and examination costs. However, many private schools have defied these regulations by imposing additional annual charges. In response to the courts directive regarding transport facilities, some of the larger school networks have started providing transportation, but they are demanding up to Rs30,000 from parents as part of a transport fund.

Lack of Government Action and Public Concern

The Punjab government has proposed outsourcing public schools but has not yet addressed the issue of unregulated fee hikes in private schools. A member of the Punjab Assembly recently raised the issue by submitting an adjournment motion, criticizing the unchecked power of private school owners.

Impact of Rising Educational Costs on Accessibility

Rana Liaqat Ali, Secretary General of the Punjab Teachers Union, expressed strong opposition to the privatization of schools, arguing that it would weaken government control over education. He also highlighted the growing concern that rising educational expenses, coupled with increasing prices of everyday goods, could make quality education unaffordable for many families in the province.