The Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (PEIRA) has issued strict directives to Islamabad’s private schools, limiting annual fee increases and emphasizing free education for underprivileged students.

Speaking after a meeting with school representatives on Friday, Acting PEIRA Chairman Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah clarified that private schools are allowed to raise fees by up to five percent annually. Schools may seek an additional three percent increase only in special cases, provided they justify it with audited expenditure records. Under no circumstances can fees be increased beyond eight percent, he added.

Dr. Mallah emphasized that PEIRA will strictly enforce fee regulations and monitor compliance across all registered schools in the capital. He urged parents to report any violations, promising action against schools found in breach of the policy.

The authority also highlighted its social responsibility mandate, instructing schools to provide free education to at least 10 percent of students from needy backgrounds, prioritizing children of martyrs.

Also Read: All you need to know about Junaid Safdar wedding wardrobe

Furthermore, Dr. Mallah announced plans to crack down on unregistered private schools, noting that while about 1,500 schools are officially registered, many others continue to operate without approval.

The move comes after concerns raised by the National Assembly and Senate standing committees over reports of excessive fee charges in several private institutions. Education experts welcomed the directive, stating it will help ensure affordable and transparent education while maintaining quality standards in Islamabad’s private school sector.