The Punjab Education Department has officially banned advance summer fees and all academic activities in private schools during the summer break. According to a strict directive issued by the District Education Authority (DEA), schools across Punjab are no longer allowed to collect tuition in advance or hold exams, summer camps, or classes. The move is part of a wider effort to protect students from harsh weather conditions and reduce the financial burden on families.
This decision was made in response to increasing public concern over unfair fee practices and extreme summer temperatures. The directive is part of the government’s broader mission to prioritize student welfare and financial fairness.
Academic Activities Prohibited During Summer Vacation
Complete Closure for Teaching Staff and Students
The new guidelines mandate that schools must suspend all academic operations during the summer. No exams, classes, or summer camps will be permitted while schools remain closed for the break. This includes a full vacation for teaching staff, who are not allowed to report for work during this period.
Administrative Work Allowed with Limitations
While academic staff will be on holiday, administrative staff may continue office operations as needed. However, these should be limited to essential duties only. Students may only be called for Youm-i-Takbeer observance, and only under official authorization.
Strict Ban on Matric Fee Collection for March and April
In another major step, Khalid Nazir Wattoo, the Secretary of Schools Education, has instructed schools not to collect fees for March and April from matriculation students. The action follows complaints from parents and students regarding unjustified fee demands.
Enforcement and Legal Consequences
The department has issued a strict warning to institutions violating this rule. Schools demanding advance fees will face disciplinary action and legal proceedings. Officials have already begun investigating cases where roll number slips were withheld over unpaid fees.
Government Reaffirms Student Welfare as Top Priority
The Punjab Education Department has stressed that these policies aim to give pupils a safe, stress-free atmosphere. For the welfare of all children, they call school owners to work completely and adhere to rules.
How Parents and Students Could Report Infractions
Parents and pupils are urged to notify any infractions to their individual District Education Authorities (DEAs) in order to guarantee openness and enforcement. We will treat these issues seriously and respond right away.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Fairness in Education
The decision by the Punjab government to ban advance summer fees and unnecessary academic pressure during holidays marks a positive shift in how student rights are handled. It also underscores the importance of ethical practices in private education systems. By protecting families from financial burden and shielding children from the intense heat, the province sets a strong example for responsible governance in education.
