Private schools warned over illegal fee collection

Hidden charges, overbilling to invite strict action, including registration cancellation

KARACHI:

The Sindh government has taken strict notice of reported fee hikes and unauthorised charges by private schools, warning of suspension or cancellation of registration in case of violations.

Additional Director General Private Institutions Prof Rafia Mallah has issued a directive to all private school heads following complaints that some institutions are charging fees beyond those approved by the registration authority, while others are imposing hidden or additional charges on parents.

According to the notification, charging any fee other than the approved tuition fee without prior permission from the registration authority is a clear violation of Rule 7(4) of the Sindh Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2005.

It further stated that under Rule 7(6), collecting tuition fees in violation of the rules or charging any additional fee without approval constitutes a punishable offence under Section 21 of the Sindh Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Control) Ordinance, 2001, making the institution liable to penalties.

Prof Mallah directed school administrations and principals to strictly adhere to approved fee structures, display the details prominently on notice boards and at reception areas, and provide copies to parents on demand to ensure transparency.

The directive also clearly prohibits the collection of any hidden or extra charges beyond the approved fee.

The authorities warned that any school found violating these instructions would face strict legal action under Section 8 of the ordinance, including suspension or cancellation of its registration certificate.

Moreover, all unregistered and illegally operating schools have been directed to apply for registration within 15 days through the official online portal.

The notification also advised individuals, organisations and societies intending to establish schools to ensure compliance with all standards and facilities set by the Sindh School Education Department before applying for registration.