A Senate panel recently expressed frustration regarding the failure of private schools to provide free education to top 10 percent of deserving students. The Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training, chaired by Senator Bushra Anjum Butt, highlighted that institutions continue to ignore legal and social obligations.
Reports suggest that private institutions collect billions of rupees annually while bypassing the mandatory 10 percent scholarship policy.
Although the Islamabad High Court previously directed the Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (PEIRA) to enforce regulations, the Association of Private Schools secured interim relief, effectively suspending the decision.
Chairperson Anjum Butt remarked that Pakistan has struggled with the crisis of out-of-school children for decades. The committee emphasised that strict adherence to government policy remains essential to guarantee every child access to quality learning.
The committee also scrutinized registration criteria, noting that many private institutions operate out of residential properties. Despite charging hefty tuition fees, numerous schools lack basic facilities such as playgrounds and libraries.
The committee addressed other academic grievances as well. Representatives from the Inter-Board Coordination Commission (IBCC) provided updates on alleged paper leaks in Cambridge A-Level exams, confirming that evidence has been shared with Cambridge Assessment and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The committee directed relevant authorities to resolve the investigation by July 21.
