ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — August 20, 2026: Parents in Islamabad and Rawalpindi are raising concerns about private schools allegedly requiring families to purchase books, notebooks, uniforms and stationery from designated outlets, with some parents saying the prices are substantially higher than those in the open market.
The issue is not new. In November 2025, the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) issued show-cause notices to 17 major private school systems, alleging that parents were being compelled to purchase logo-branded notebooks, workbooks, uniforms and other supplies from school-authorised vendors.
The CCP said its inquiry found cases in which students were treated as “captive consumers,” meaning families had limited choice over where to purchase required school supplies.
Parents say the practice adds considerably to the cost of education. A recent report from Islamabad and Rawalpindi found that some stationery items were reportedly being sold for significantly more at designated outlets than in the open market.
Authorities in Pakistan have also moved against the practice. Punjab has prohibited private schools from forcing parents to purchase supplies from selected shops, warning schools of action for violations.
The controversy has renewed calls for greater transparency, freedom for parents to choose vendors and stronger enforcement of rules protecting families from excessive education-related costs.
