The Sindh High Court (SHC) has directed private schools to issue notices for summer vacation fees in May and barred them from collecting fees for multiple months through simultaneous vouchers.
According to media reports, under the order, fees for June must be paid by June 30 and fees for July by July 30. Schools may not demand both payments at once.
The directions came during the hearing of a petition challenging the collection of June and July fees, as well as the purchase of books and uniforms from schools. A government lawyer and a representative of the private schools directorate appeared before the court.
The petitioner’s counsel argued that schools issue two vouchers to parents at the same time. He said no academic activity takes place during the vacations, and therefore fees cannot be charged for that period.
On the issue of books and uniforms, the court instructed the private schools directorate and the other parties to settle the matter through mutual consultation, and to hold a meeting within the next two weeks. The court then disposed of the petition, directing the directorate and the other respondents to act in line with its order.
Meanwhile, in a similar development, the Quetta district administration has announced that private schools collecting fees for vacation periods will have their registrations cancelled and their premises sealed.
Deputy Commissioner West Munir Ahmed Durrani issued a formal notification banning the practice, following a Balochistan High Court ruling. The ban takes effect from the date of the notification, and schools have been directed to ensure the court’s decision is implemented.
Officials said strict action will be taken against any private school found charging fees during vacations, including those that collect fees for the winter break, which will face cancellation of registration and sealing.
The deputy commissioner urged parents to report complaints about vacation fee collection without delay to his office or to the relevant officials of the Education Department. The administration said prompt reporting will allow timely action against violating schools.