School Expenses Rise in Pakistan as Back-to-School Costs Surge
With the new academic year underway, school expenses rise sharply across Pakistan. Parents now pay more for books, uniforms, and supplies. As a result, many households feel increasing financial pressure.
Meanwhile, Urdu Bazaar and nearby textbook shops see heavy crowds daily. Families rush to buy books and arrange protective covers. However, cover prices have also increased this year, adding to the burden.
Rising Costs and Home-Based Work
Prices for book covering have gone up noticeably. For example, covering one book now costs between Rs75 and Rs100. Larger notebooks and registers cost up to Rs130, which raises total expenses.
In response, many women now offer book-covering services from home. Students, homemakers, and working women take up this work part-time. This effort helps them support daily household costs.
Some families display signs outside their homes to attract customers. Others receive orders directly from commercial cover shops. A full set of books usually takes three to four hours to complete. Therefore, this activity provides a useful source of extra income.
At the same time, stationery prices continue to rise. A small notebook costs Rs150, while better-quality ones reach Rs400. Registers sell for around Rs450, and drawing books can cost up to Rs1,000.
Admissions Rules and Public Concerns
School-related costs have increased beyond stationery. Uniforms cost around Rs3,000, while shoes range between Rs2,500 and Rs5,000. Basic school bags start at Rs1,500 and go higher for better quality.
As a result, enrolling one child now costs between Rs20,000 and Rs30,000. Many parents openly criticize these rising costs. They believe education is becoming less accessible for low-income families.
In addition, a 40 percent shortage of textbooks has created further challenges. Families struggle to find required books on time.
On the policy side, authorities now require B Forms for all students. This rule supports the new Unique Student Identifier system. Therefore, schools must update student records quickly to complete registrations.
