Senate Committee Reviews 10% Free Education Quota in Islamabad Private Schools
The Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training, led by Senator Bushra Anjum Butt, recently examined the enforcement of the mandatory free education quota in Islamabad’s private schools. The committee sought detailed information on the compliance of these institutions with regulations requiring 10 percent free education for students.
During the session, committee members discussed the status of private educational institutions in Islamabad and questioned officials about the effectiveness of the policy’s implementation. Senator Jan Muhammad highlighted that private schools are legally obligated to offer free education to 10 percent of their students and inquired about the degree to which this mandate was being followed.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) provided a briefing, stating that there are currently 1,627 registered private educational institutions in Islamabad, with an enrollment of approximately 427,000 students. He reported that about 25,500 students are currently receiving free education as part of the 10 percent quota.
Compliance is monitored through a designated director of compliance, and regular oversight activities are conducted to ensure adherence to the rules. However, the committee was advised of gaps in enforcement and was urged to take stricter action against schools failing to meet the quota.
Chairperson Senator Bushra Anjum Butt directed authorities to impose penalties on schools that do not comply with the mandatory free education requirements, emphasizing the importance of accountability in expanding educational access for underprivileged students.
Senator Jan Muhammad also sought information concerning fines levied on private schools by regulatory bodies for violations of education regulations. The discussion briefly touched on issues related to the recognition of degrees from certain private universities, although lawmakers prioritized improving access to education through private schools’ compliance with free education quotas.
The Senate committee intends to continue reviewing the mechanisms in place to monitor compliance, aiming to ensure private educational institutions fulfill their responsibilities and enhance access to quality education for eligible students under the free education policy.