The Sindh Education Department has issued fresh directions to all private schools across the province to strictly comply with the legal requirement of providing free education to underprivileged children. The move follows clear orders from the Sindh High Court (Sukkur Bench) and aims to ensure that Sindh private schools free education obligations are implemented without delay or exception.
According to the official notification, private schools are legally bound to allocate at least 10 percent of their total enrolled seats to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. These children must be provided education without charging any fees, in line with existing education laws. Authorities have warned that failure to comply could put school registrations and renewals at serious risk.
Court Orders and Legal Background
The directive has been issued in light of the Sindh High Court’s judgment dated January 12, 2026, in a constitutional petition filed against the Government of Sindh. The decision reaffirmed the enforcement of the Sindh Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2013, which clearly applies to private educational institutions operating in the province.
The Education Department stated that the notification was also based on formal correspondence received from the Additional Advocate General of Sindh, emphasizing mandatory compliance with the court’s ruling. Officials stressed that the law leaves no room for discretion and must be followed by all registered private schools, regardless of size or fee structure.
Under the directive, schools are required to submit documented proof of compliance. This includes zero-fee vouchers, admission records, and other relevant documents showing that at least 10 percent of enrolled students are receiving free education.
Registration Linked to Compliance
The department has made it clear that the registration and renewal of private schools will now be directly linked to compliance with the court orders. Schools failing to submit implementation reports will not be granted approval for registration or renewal.
In cases of violation, responsibility will fall directly on the concerned school director. Authorities have warned that legal and administrative action may be initiated against individuals found personally responsible for ignoring the orders.
Education officials believe the step will help improve access to education for marginalized communities and ensure greater accountability within the private education sector. The move has also been welcomed by education rights advocates, who see it as a positive effort toward reducing inequality in access to quality education across Sindh.
The Education Department has urged all private institutions to comply promptly to avoid legal consequences and contribute to the broader goal of inclusive education in the province.
