The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training has abolished 310 non-teaching posts in Islamabad’s schools and colleges, citing long-standing vacancies and a federal cabinet decision made last year.
According to an official notification, a total of 493 non-teaching positions were lying vacant across institutions under the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE). Out of these, 310 have been permanently abolished in line with the cabinet’s directive.
The abolished positions include guards, maids, steno-typists, dispensers, storekeepers, plumbers, mechanics, watermen, sweepers, and gardeners. Officials said these posts had remained unfilled for years due to the FDE’s failure to start recruitment.
The ministry stated that the decision was part of broader administrative reforms aimed at improving efficiency and eliminating redundant posts.
However, an FDE official, speaking on condition of anonymity, criticised the move, saying the ministry and FDE management were equally responsible for the situation. “The number of schools and colleges in Islamabad has grown steadily, but instead of hiring more staff, existing posts are being abolished,” the official said.
Education experts and staff associations warned that the decision could affect the smooth functioning of schools, particularly maintenance and logistics operations.
The FDE manages over 450 educational institutions in Islamabad Capital Territory, including federal government schools and model colleges, many of which rely heavily on non-teaching staff for daily operations.
While no plan has been announced to restore or replace the abolished posts, officials indicated that a new staffing structure may be introduced as part of future reforms.
