The Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (ICT-PEIRA) has moved to tighten oversight of private schools across Islamabad, approving a package of enforcement measures designed to protect students’ health, educational rights and the interests of parents.
ICT-PEIRA will launch targeted action against unregistered institutions operating in violation of the ICT-PEIRA Act, 2013, coordinating with district administration and law enforcement to impose penalties, audits and sealing where required. The Authority stressed that repeated notices and warnings will be followed by legal measures to stop unlawful operations.
Under the new directives, schools are required to collect tuition on a monthly basis only; advance fee collection beyond the approved 12-month academic session is prohibited. ICT-PEIRA warned that non-compliance may result in fines, forensic audits and other legal consequences to ensure financial transparency and to protect parents from exploitative fees.
To address student health concerns, ICT-PEIRA approved a Lighter School Bags Policy in line with international standards, requiring that school bags remain within 10% of a child’s body weight. The policy encourages practical measures such as rationalized timetables, reduction of unnecessary textbooks and the provision of lockers where feasible to reduce daily load on children.
A dedicated complaint facilitation counter has been established for parents to report overcharging, illegal fee collection and other violations directly to ICT-PEIRA. The Authority said these channels will be used to monitor compliance and to take swift action where breaches are reported.
Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah reiterated the priorities of the regulator and said ‘Students’ health, future and parents’ rights are our top priority. No institution will be allowed to exploit families or operate outside the law. Strict compliance will be ensured through monitoring and enforcement.’ ICT-PEIRA affirmed its ongoing commitment to quality education, transparency and student welfare across the capital.
