Several private schools across Punjab have hiked tuition fees by up to 26% just ahead of the summer break, drawing strong criticism from lawmakers in the Punjab Assembly.
The issue was raised by MPA Ahmad Rasheed Bhatti, who said schools have increased monthly fees by Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 8,000 per student — despite the fact that classes will remain suspended for the next three months.
He pointed out that this move violates a Lahore High Court ruling, which clearly states that only half the monthly fee can be charged during summer vacations.
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“The court’s decision is being openly violated,” Bhatti told the House.
Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan called the hike “an act of cruelty” and ordered the provincial Education Minister to take immediate action against the schools involved. The minister assured the House that an inquiry will begin without delay.
Last year, the Directorate of Private Institutions had issued a notice declaring any charges beyond admission and regular tuition fees illegal. It had also warned schools not to force parents to buy school-branded notebooks.
The matter has now been referred to the Standing Committee on Schools, which will review the situation and recommend further action.
