The education authorities in Rawalpindi have imposed a complete ban on the on-campus sale of textbooks, uniforms, and stationery in all public and private schools, in a decisive move ahead of the new academic session.
The directive, issued by the District Education Authority, applies across the district and aims to end long-standing practices that placed financial pressure on parents.
Schools Barred from Selling Supplies on Campus
Under the new policy, schools are strictly prohibited from selling notebooks, uniforms, badges, ties, and other related items within their premises. Institutions have also been barred from forming exclusive partnerships with vendors to operate shops on school property.
Officials say the move is intended to eliminate the practice of forcing parents to purchase overpriced items directly from schools. The notification clearly states that no student or parent can be compelled to buy books or uniforms from a specific source.
Strict Penalties for Violations
Authorities have warned that violations will result in serious consequences, including heavy fines and possible cancellation of school registration. The decision comes at a critical time, as annual exams conclude and new admissions begin, a period when parents typically face increased expenses.
Complaints Continue Despite Ban
Despite the official orders, parents claim that several private schools are still bypassing the rules by selling items through nearby outlets or affiliated shops.
Many parents have also reported a noticeable increase in prices compared to last year, adding further financial strain. One parent alleged that authorities are aware of ongoing violations but enforcement remains weak, stating that “the notification will only matter if it is properly implemented.”
Daily Monitoring to Ensure Compliance
In response, the Executive Officer of the District Education Authority Rawalpindi has pledged strict action. Monitoring teams will conduct daily inspections, and any school found violating the ban will face immediate penalties.
Parents have been encouraged to report complaints directly to the district office, with assurances that action will be taken promptly.
Relief for Parents
The ban has been welcomed by many parents and education observers, who believe it will break the monopoly schools have over essential supplies. By allowing open market competition, families are expected to find more affordable options for books and uniforms.
However, experts caution that the success of this policy will depend on consistent enforcement, noting that similar measures in the past have struggled due to weak oversight.
What Happens Next
Schools are now expected to remove all sales counters and end vendor agreements within their premises. Parents, meanwhile, are advised to stay vigilant and report any cases where they are pressured into specific purchases.
As the new academic session begins, the effectiveness of this ban will depend on whether authorities can ensure strict compliance across all institutions. For now, the move signals a clear stance against profiteering in the education sector.
