The Education Department of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has introduced a new policy strictly prohibiting private schools from involving students in the fee collection process, in a bid to protect children from psychological stress and maintain a fair learning environment.
According to a formal notification issued to all private educational institutions, all financial communications must now take place exclusively between the school administration and parents or guardians. The directive categorically states that asking students to submit fees, making public announcements about unpaid dues, or denying classroom access over fee-related issues will not be tolerated.
The policy outlines several key guidelines. Schools must direct all reminders concerning pending dues to parents only, maintain strict confidentiality regarding a family’s financial background, and ensure the fee collection process is handled centrally by the accounts department without student involvement.
Officials from the Education Department said the move is designed to eliminate practices that place undue psychological pressure on children, stigmatize students from financially struggling families, or disrupt their academic focus.
Education experts have welcomed the step, describing it as an important measure to uphold child welfare standards in private schooling. However, some private school representatives have raised concerns about the practical challenges of enforcing the policy, particularly in cases of chronic fee defaults.
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The department has warned that strict action will be taken against any institution found violating the new policy.