Private Schools Gear Up for Protest Over Tax Hike
Private educational institutions nationwide have strongly opposed the government’s proposal to impose a Point of Sales Tax on private schools charging monthly fees exceeding one thousand rupees. According to a press release, the schools have threatened to launch nationwide protests if the tax is enforced.
Dr. Malik Abrar Hussain, Central President of the All Pakistan Private Schools and Colleges Association, warned that such a tax would significantly increase education costs, making it inaccessible for the average citizen.
He explained that a 25% tax hike would substantially raise fees, meaning that a school currently charging 4,000 rupees would need to increase its fees to 5,000, with parents bearing the additional burden. “This move contradicts the government’s slogan of ‘Education for All’ and undermines efforts to address the educational crisis,” he remarked.
During a meeting of the Central Executive Committee of the association, chaired by Dr. Malik Abrar Hussain, members unanimously decided to reject any form of taxation on education.
The meeting, held at the association’s central office, also addressed concerns over recent FSC results from the Federal Board of Islamabad. The association intends to escalate these issues to higher authorities and strategize a resolution.
The committee also discussed the status of educational institutions in Islamabad’s sectoral areas, particularly in light of the high court’s ruling on non-conforming use.
The association pledged to formulate an action plan with the Capital Development Authority (CDA) once the court’s decision is finalized. It reiterated its commitment to addressing the challenges faced by private schools across the country and fostering public-private partnerships in education.
Key figures at the meeting included Secretary General Muhammad Ashraf Haraj, Javed Iqbal Raja, Irfan Muzaffar Kiani, Malik Hafeezur Rahman, Sardar Gul Zubair Khan, Haji Abdul Rahim, Muhammad Ibrahim, Qasim Abbas, Antakah Hussain, Chaudhry Iftikhar Ahmed, Tariq Mehmood Rizvi, Syed Abid Shah, and Madam Sadia.
They all expressed their support for resisting the proposed tax and advocating for the interests of students and institutions.
News Courtesy:Pro Pakistani
