Summer Camp Charges Declared Off-Limits for Private Schools in Punjab

Punjab government has issued strict instructions to private schools prohibiting them from collecting any extra charges for summer camps, with clear warning of action against violations. Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, in a special statement addressing complaints from parents, said that only standard monthly tuition fees are allowed during the summer vacation period. He clarified that schools are not permitted to introduce separate fee heads such as summer camp or vacation activity charges. He further stressed that participation in summer camp programs must remain entirely optional, and no student or parent can be forced or pressured into enrollment. The move comes after multiple reports surfaced alleging that some private institutions were demanding additional payments for summer learning activities. The provincial government reiterated that while regular fee collection is lawful, any attempt to impose unauthorized charges will be treated as a violation of official policy. Authorities have been directed to monitor compliance closely and take immediate action on complaints from parents. The decision aims to provide financial relief to families during the holiday season while ensuring transparency and fairness in school fee structures across Punjab. Inspection teams will also be engaged to ensure enforcement at school level.