Private Schools Allegedly Force Parents to Buy Expensive Books, Stationery

Families in Islamabad and Rawalpindi are facing added costs as private schools resume, according to parents. Allegedly, certain institutions insist on purchasing school supplies, uniforms and books from specific stores. Shop owners charge considerably higher prices compared to the regular market. Some parents reported markups of up to 300% for certain items, significantly straining the finances of families with multiple children.

Islamabad schools have already begun classes, while Rawalpindi schools are set to reopen on August 24. Parents expressed concern over schools mandating the purchase of complete sets of books, even if they already possess functional copies from younger siblings. They also raised alarms about compulsory school-branded items adorned with institutional logos.

At Satti Book Depot, notebooks were priced between Rs. 100 and Rs. 180 in the open market, but designated outlets sold them for Rs. 220 to Rs. 250, as noted by shop owner Israrul Haq. The price disparity was greater for branded supplies. A file that typically costs Rs. 50 to Rs. 80 in the market can go above Rs. 200 with school branding.

Similarly, a homework diary usually priced at about Rs. 50 can fetch approximately Rs. 170 with a school logo. Parents emphasized that these expenses are in addition to tuition, annual fees, and facility charges, increasing the financial pressure on household budgets.