Education authorities in Punjab are facing criticism after reports revealed that majority of private schools have failed to provide free education to deserving students under the mandatory 10 per cent quota policy.
According to reports, the authorities also discovered that a large number of private schools operating in different districts are still unregistered.
The issue came under discussion during a meeting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). The PAC committee demanded complete details about the latest fee structures of private schools. In addition, they also demanded information regarding the implementation of the 10 per cent free education quota for poor and deserving children.
The School Education Department directed all Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of education authorities across Punjab to submit detailed reports within three days. Officials were instructed to immediately provide records about monthly school fees and the number of students receiving free education under the quota system.
Proof of separate district-wise data was demanded by authorities regarding registered private schools and the fees they charge students. However, deserving children to actually receive free education have now been made compulsory. All CEOs were ordered to submit signed official booklets and complete documentation within the given deadline.
Moreover, an audit of private schools has now started at the instructions of the PAC. The government also requires information about how many unregistered schools are operating.
Furthermore, the 10 per cent free education policy was introduced by the Punjab government to help poor but capable students study in private schools without paying fees. Earlier government announcements stated that private schools would be legally required to reserve seats for underprivileged students.
Previously, the Punjab government planned surveys to identify deserving children eligible for free education. The Private Schools Ordinance 2014 was intended to be strengthened to ensure better enforcement of the quota policy.
However, the latest findings have raised concerns that many deserving children may still not be receiving the educational opportunities under the introduced policy. Authorities are now expected to review school records accurately and take action against institutions violating the rules.
Also read: Govt launches crackdown against unregistered private schools in Islamabad
