Private Schools Cannot Force Parents to Buy Uniforms and Books from Specific Vendors – Official Notification Issued

🚫 Private Schools Cannot Force Parents to Buy Uniforms and Books from Specific Vendors – Official Notification Issued

The Punjab School Education Department has issued a strong and clear notification (Ref: SO(A-I)1-31/2022) addressing complaints received from parents and students regarding unethical practices by some private schools.

📢 Important Notice: Punjab Education Department bans private schools from forcing parents to purchase uniforms, books, or stationery from specific stores. Legal action will be taken on violations.

These complaints highlight that certain private institutions are pressuring families to purchase school uniforms, textbooks, stationery, and other supplies only from the school itself or from specific, overpriced vendors. This practice has been deemed unacceptable and against the principles of fair access to education.

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📌 Summary of the Notification:

1. Ban on Forced Purchases from Specific Shops/Vendors: Private schools are strictly prohibited from forcing or directing parents to buy educational materials only from designated sources.

2. Transparency in Supply Lists: Schools must provide open and transparent lists of required materials (books, uniforms, stationery), without linking them to any particular vendor.

3. Legal Action for Non-Compliance: Any school found involved in such practices will face strict legal action under the Punjab Private Educational Institutions (Promotion and Regulation) Ordinance. This can include:

• Heavy fines

• Suspension of registration

• Permanent closure of the school

4. Monitoring by District Education Authorities (DEAs): All District Education Authorities (DEAs) have been instructed to closely monitor private schools and to take immediate action on any related complaints.

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🗣️ Message from the Secretary:

Khalid Nazir Wattoo (PAS), Secretary School Education, emphasized the importance of safeguarding educational rights and affordability for all students and parents across Punjab. He reiterated that no child should be burdened financially by being restricted to high-priced vendors.

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📣 A Call to Parents & Educators:

Parents are encouraged to report any school violating this directive to their respective District Education Authority. Together, we can help build a fair, affordable, and inclusive education system for all.

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📝 Stay tuned for more updates and official notifications on our blog!

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