The Punjab education department has taken a strong stance against private schools that pressure parents into buying books and uniforms from specific vendors. A recent directive from the School Education Department clearly forbids such practices, calling them a violation of laws governing private institutions.
The notification states that no private school can force parents to purchase books, uniforms, or other required items from designated shops. Parents should not face any compulsion when buying school necessities, the department added. If schools ignore these rules, parents are encouraged to file complaints with their District Education Authority.
This move follows actions taken by the Competition Commission of Pakistan last year. In November, the CCP issued show-cause notices to 17 major private schools. The schools were accused of selling expensive, logo-branded notebooks, workbooks, and uniforms.
The CCP’s inquiry report found that many schools had agreements with specific vendors and used their dominant position to pressure students’ families. Schools were asked to respond in writing within 14 days of receiving the notices.
The Punjab education department’s directive reinforces the need for transparency and fairness in private education.