Sindh to Take Action Against Private Schools Over Arbitrary Fee Increase

Parents in Sindh have lodged numerous grievances with the provincial ombudsman regarding exorbitant fees and other practices by private educational institutions. These concerns encompass steep annual fee increases, mandatory alterations to school attire, and the sale of pricey textbooks and other learning materials via exclusive merchants.

The matter was brought to the forefront during a hearing presided over by Sindh Ombudsman Muhammad Sohail Rajput. Esteemed education officials, comprising the senior education secretary, the director general of private schools, and an additional director, were also present at the forum. Parents informed the panel that various private schools were raising fees annually, contravening established regulations, thereby imposing an additional financial burden on households.

They also expressed discontent over some schools mandating the purchase of fresh uniforms biannually, while textbooks and other resources had to be procured from particular vendors at exorbitant prices. Certain parents stated that younger siblings were barred from utilizing coursebooks procured for older children in the preceding academic year, compelling families to buy new sets of books.

Ombudsman Rajput took note of the complaints and instructed the director general of private schools to submit a report by August 25, 2026. He affirmed that action would be taken against any private schools found to be in violation of the law.