By Web Desk 
Private schools in Pakistan are preparing to launch protests against the government’s proposal to impose a 25% Point of Sales (POS) tax on schools charging more than Rs 1,000 per month in fees. The All Pakistan Private Schools and Colleges Association has strongly condemned the proposal, stating that it would lead to a steep rise in educational costs and burden families across the nation.
Dr. Malik Abrar Hussain, the association’s Central President, highlighted the potential impact of the tax. “The increase in fees will put additional pressure on parents who are already struggling with rising inflation,” he explained. For instance, a school currently charging Rs 4,000 would have to increase its fees to Rs 5,000, placing further strain on family budgets.
Dr. Hussain warned that the move undermines the government’s campaign for ‘Education for All’, as higher fees would likely discourage parents from enrolling their children in private institutions. He emphasized that a more holistic approach is needed to support education in the country, rather than imposing financial burdens on families.
Strong Opposition from the Private Sector
At a meeting of the Central Executive Committee of the association, members unanimously rejected any form of taxation on private schools. They argued that education should be exempt from taxation, especially in a country like Pakistan, where access to quality education is already limited.
The association plans to escalate the issue and seek intervention from higher authorities. Dr. Hussain and other members believe that the proposed tax will drive up fees, making private education even less accessible to the public. “This tax is unjust and will make education unaffordable for the average citizen,” he said.
Legal Challenges and Other Concerns
The meeting also addressed legal challenges facing private schools in Islamabad’s sectoral areas, particularly following a high court ruling on non-conforming land use. The association expressed its willingness to work with the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to find a resolution that ensures schools can continue to operate without disruption.
The association’s members stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in tackling the challenges faced by the education sector. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring that schools remain accessible and that the quality of education is not compromised by unnecessary financial burdens.
Advocacy and Future Plans
Notable figures in the private education sector, including Muhammad Ashraf Haraj, Sardar Gul Zubair Khan, Malik Hafeezur Rahman, and Madam Sadia, voiced their concerns about the proposed tax and pledged their support for the association’s efforts to block its implementation.
The association also discussed broader concerns related to educational reform and public policy, with a focus on promoting affordable and high-quality education across Pakistan. The meeting concluded with a call for further consultations with stakeholders to ensure that any future government policies support, rather than hinder, the nation’s educational progress.