Private Schools Allegedly Require Advance Payment for Summer Vacation Fees

Private schools in Karachi and across Sindh have started collecting tuition fees for June and July months well in advance, despite explicit directives from the provincial education department and the Directorate of Private Schools prohibiting such early recovery. Parents report that many schools issued fee vouchers as early as February and March, often demanding annual charges alongside the advance summer fees.

Some parents allege that students who fail to submit the vouchers are threatened with restrictions on attending classes. The Directorate of Private Schools has classified this practice as illegal and a violation of official instructions. Authorities have reiterated that schools must strictly adhere to the government-mandated fee schedule.

Families have voiced concerns over the increasing financial pressure, especially with Ramadan and Eid approaching, as paying multiple months’ tuition plus annual charges has become difficult amid rising inflation. Parents are urging the provincial government to take action against schools that ignore official orders and provide relief to households facing financial strain.