Hidden charges and overbilling to invite strict action including deregistration
The Sindh government has taken strict note of reported fee hikes and unauthorized charges by private schools, warning of suspension or cancellation of registration in case of violations.
Additional Director General of Private Institutions, Professor Rafia Mallah, has issued a directive to all principals of private schools 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 of the registration authority is a clear violation of Rule 7(4) of the Sindh Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2005.
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It further stated that under Rule 7(6), charging tuition fees in violation of the rules or charging any additional fee without approval constitutes an offense punishable under Section 21 of the Sindh Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Control) Ordinance, 2001, making the institution liable to sanctions.
Professor Mallah directed school administrations and principals to strictly adhere to the approved fee structures, display the details prominently on notice boards and in reception areas, and provide copies to parents upon request to ensure transparency.
The directive also clearly prohibits the charging of hidden or additional charges beyond the approved rate.
Officials warned that any school violating these directions would face strict legal action under Section 8 of the ordinance, including suspension or cancellation of its registration certificate.
Additionally, all unregistered and illegally operating schools have been directed to apply for registration within 15 days through the official online portal.
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The notification also advises individuals, organizations and societies intending to establish schools to ensure compliance with all standards and facilities laid down by the Sindh School Education Department before applying for registration.
He warned that institutions that did not meet the required criteria would not be granted registration, and action would be initiated through deputy commissioners to close such schools, and students would be shifted to nearby institutions.
