Sindh Government Warns Private Schools Against Illegal Fee Hikes

The Sindh government has launched a fresh crackdown on private schools charging unauthorized fees, warning that institutions violating the law could face suspension or cancellation of their registration. The move comes after authorities received multiple complaints from parents about schools increasing tuition fees and collecting hidden charges without official approval.

According to the Directorate of Private Institutions, all registered private schools must strictly follow the approved fee structure under the Sindh Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Control) Ordinance, 2001 and the Sindh Private Educational Institutions (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2005. Schools are not allowed to increase tuition fees or introduce new charges without obtaining prior permission from the relevant registration authority.

Education officials have directed school administrations to display the approved fee structure on notice boards and reception areas so that parents can easily verify the official charges. Schools have also been instructed to provide a copy of the fee schedule whenever requested, ensuring greater transparency and protecting parents from unexpected financial burdens.

The government has made it clear that collecting admission charges, annual fees, activity fees, security deposits, or any other payments beyond the approved schedule without authorization is a punishable offense. Authorities warned that any institution found violating these regulations could face legal proceedings, including fines, suspension, or the cancellation of its registration.

In addition to the action against fee violations, the Sindh School Education Department has directed unregistered private schools to complete their registration through the official online portal within 15 days. Officials said the registration process is essential to ensure schools meet the required educational, safety, and administrative standards.

The department also advised individuals and organizations planning to establish new educational institutions to fulfill all mandatory requirements before applying for registration. Schools that fail to meet the prescribed standards may not receive approval and could be closed by the district administration. In such cases, affected students will be shifted to nearby registered schools to ensure their education continues without disruption.

Education authorities have urged parents to stay informed about their children’s school fee structure and immediately report any unauthorized fee increases or hidden charges to the relevant department. Officials say the latest measures are intended to strengthen accountability, improve transparency in private education, and protect families from unfair financial practices while ensuring schools operate within the law.