Private School Costs Rise in Islamabad, Rawalpindi
Families face rising private school costs as schools reopen in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Parents say some schools require purchases from specific shops.These requirements include books, stationery, uniforms and other supplies. Parents claim designated outlets often charge much higher prices than open-market shops.
Some families say certain items cost up to 300% more. The added expense creates greater pressure for households with several school-going children.Islamabad schools have already reopened. Meanwhile, schools in Rawalpindi plan to resume classes on August 24.
Parents Question Mandatory School Supplies
Parents say some schools require complete book sets each year. This applies even when families already have usable books from older siblings.They also object to compulsory school-branded items. These products often carry the school’s logo or monogram and cost more than regular supplies.
A comparison at Satti Book Depot highlighted the price difference. Shop owner Israrul Haq said notebooks costing Rs100 to Rs180 elsewhere can sell for Rs220 to Rs250.
The gap becomes larger for branded stationery. For example, a file costing Rs50 to Rs80 can exceed Rs200 with a school monogram.Similarly, a homework diary costing about Rs50 can reach around Rs170 with a school logo. Therefore, parents say branding can significantly increase education expenses.
Families Face Growing Education Bills
Parents already pay tuition and other school charges. These can include annual fees and facility charges.Additional supply costs can therefore create a serious burden. Families with more than one child face even higher expenses.Parents are calling for greater transparency in school purchasing requirements. They also want families to have more freedom when choosing stationery suppliers.
Allowing parents to buy standard supplies from open-market shops could reduce costs. Moreover, schools could avoid requiring new books when older editions remain usable.The concerns have renewed debate about affordability in private education. As schools reopen, families hope institutions will consider their financial pressures.
