The Punjab School Education Department has barred private schools from compelling parents to purchase books, uniforms or other items from specific shops or vendors.
In a formal directive issued to private educational institutions, the department stated that schools are not permitted to direct parents to designated sellers for uniforms, books or any required school items. The notification said such practices violate the laws governing private schools in the province.
According to the directive, parents must not be pressured into making compulsory purchases from particular outlets. The department said that any private school found enforcing such conditions would be acting in breach of regulations.
The notification further advised parents to report violations. Complaints can be submitted to the relevant District Education Authority in their respective districts, it added.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat said, “Private educational institutions are strictly prohibited from forcing parents to purchase books, uniforms or other items from any specific shop or vendor”.
“Any such violation will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law,” added.
Hayat said the department is focused on enforcing existing regulations and safeguarding parents’ rights.
The directive follows earlier action taken by the Competition Commission of Pakistan against private schools over similar practices. In November last year, the CCP issued show-cause notices to 17 major private schools for selling school-logo notebooks, workbooks and uniforms to students.
According to details shared at the time, the notices were issued after the completion of an inquiry report. The schools were directed to submit written responses within 14 days.
The inquiry report stated that the schools were accused of abusing their dominant position by compelling students to purchase logo-branded notebooks and uniforms at higher prices.
The investigation also found that several schools had undisclosed arrangements with specific vendors for the sale of these items.