Private schools announce strike

Anti-corruption officials barging into schools to verify freeship lists, instead of coordinating via directorate

KARACHI:

Private educational institutions across Sindh have announced a strike in protest against ongoing anti-corruption inspections at schools. The Grand Alliance of Private School Associations Sindh declared that demonstrations will be held from January 6 to 8, with January 8 observed as a "Black Day" and a complete strike on January 9.

Speaking at a press conference at Karachi Press Club, alliance leaders highlighted the serious challenges facing private schools and voiced strong reservations over the verification drives being conducted by anti-corruption teams.

All Sindh Private Schools and Colleges Association Chairman Syed Haider Ali said the Sindh High Court Sukkur Bench's December 8, 2025 order tasked anti-corruption officials with verifying "free-ship" lists submitted by regional directors. "Instead of coordinating through the Directorate of Private Institutions, teams began direct inspections at schools, which violates the Sindh Private Institutions Act 2013," he noted.

He added that armed personnel entering schools created fear and anxiety among students and staff, while parents were distressed by unnecessary questioning and demands for details.

The alliance urged Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and Education Minister Sardar Ali Shah to intervene and ensure that court orders are implemented through a dignified and lawful process, avoiding direct intrusion into schools. Leaders also announced plans to file a fresh petition in court to halt the verification drive.

From January 6 to 8, joint protest meetings of parents and school administrations will be held across all districts. On January 8, private institutions will mark a Black Day, followed by a complete shutdown of schools and colleges on January 9.

The press conference was attended by Pakistan Private Schools and Colleges Association Chairman Anwar Ali Bhatti, All Private Schools Management Association Chairman Syed Tariq Shah, and other representatives.