Lahore Education Authority sets cap on private school fee hikes

LAHORE: The District School Education Authority has issued strict guidelines, under which private schools are allowed to increase tuition fees by up to five percent annually.

Guidelines have been issued to control financial pressure on parents and unnecessary demands for fees by private educational institutions in Lahore.

Any increase beyond this limit will be considered illegal, the authority said, adding that no school will be allowed to charge more than the prescribed fee.

School administrations will not be allowed to charge additional fees for any activity or summer camp, nor will students be forced to buy books or notebooks from specific shops.

Addressing another major concern faced by parents, the guidelines state that no private school is allowed to charge advance fees.

Schools are allowed to collect fees only on a monthly basis, and in case of non-payment, any act of expulsion or humiliating the student will lead to strict action.

The guidelines also clearly state that all private educational institutions are bound to provide a safe, friendly and harassment-free environment to students.

It is mandatory for school administrations to maintain a positive learning environment and ensure the protection of students’ rights.

The District School Education Authority has ordered all private school owners to immediately implement these new guidelines and warned of legal action in case of non-compliance.