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Private schools in Karachi have adopted a troubling trend of unilaterally increasing fees without seeking approval from the education department. Recent reports indicate that these schools are contemplating further fee hikes, causing considerable concern among parents. The prospective fee hike pose a threat to parents who, grappling with the high inflation, may be compelled to withdraw their children from schools if unable to meet the heightened financial demands.
The arbitrary behavior of private schools in Karachi is not a novel occurrence; instances of unauthorized fee hikes have occurred in the past, prompting protests from parents. Despite previous demonstrations against the private school “mafia,” these institutions seem undeterred. Not only have they raised fees without approval, but they have also violated bans by selling student materials, such as books and copies, at exorbitant prices, placing an additional burden on parents.
Addressing concerns about fee hike, the Sindh Education Department asserts that any fee increase permitted by the directorate private schools officer will undergo scrutiny. According to regulations, schools are only allowed to raise fees by a maximum of 10% annually. Legal action will be taken against any unauthorized fee hikes. Furthermore, private school owners are imposing their own annual charges on parents, compounding the challenges faced by families.
The private school “mafia” has transformed into a lucrative enterprise in the city, with influential figures supporting its operations. Despite legal actions against extortion practices, these entities continue to raise fees with impunity. It is imperative for the education department and the Sindh government to take decisive measures and enforce strict actions against unauthorized fee increases and other illicit collections by private schools.
