The Punjab government has imposed a ban on the practice of purchasing textbooks, school uniforms, and other educational supplies from designated shops.
The Punjab School Education Department has decided to take action against private schools that force parents and students to buy school items from specific vendors.
According to the notice, private educational institutions cannot compel parents to use a particular vendor or service. Forcing purchases from a specific shop violates the Punjab Private Educational Institutions Ordinance, and strict action will be taken against schools that violate the law.
Officials have advised that complaints regarding such illegal practices should be reported to the relevant education authority or the Chief Minister’s Complaint Cell. The rights of parents will be protected, and enforcement of the law will be ensured.
This move addresses a growing trend in Pakistan where parents of private school students are often compelled to buy textbooks, uniforms, and stationery from designated shops linked to the schools.
Many parents have complained that this practice inflates costs and limits choice, putting unnecessary financial pressure on families. The ban is seen as a step toward giving parents freedom of choice and ensuring fair competition among vendors.
