The Sindh Education Department has imposed a complete ban on using private school buildings for residential or commercial purposes, tightening regulatory oversight across the province.
Officials stated that all private school premises must now be used exclusively for educational activities. Any setup of shops, offices, or living quarters within school buildings has been declared a serious legal violation.
Province-Wide Inspections Launched
Authorities have initiated province-wide inspections of private educational institutions to ensure compliance with safety and registration standards.
Under the new enforcement drive, schools are required to submit:
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Valid structural fitness certificates
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Proof that buildings are safe and suitable for students
Schools operating in unsafe, weak, or dilapidated structures have been ordered to vacate immediately until safety requirements are met.
Strict Action Against Violations
Education officials warned that failure to comply may lead to:
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Suspension or cancellation of school registration
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Sealing of school premises involved in non-educational activities
Authorities also clarified that in case of any accident on school property, full legal responsibility will lie with the school administration.
Fire Safety Measures Made Mandatory
Earlier, the Sindh government issued strict fire safety directives for all private educational institutions through the Directorate of Inspection and Registration of Private Institutions.
Under the updated guidelines, schools must install:
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Fire alarms
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Smoke detectors
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Fire extinguishers
Emergency Preparedness Now Required
In addition to equipment installation, schools are now required to:
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Keep emergency exits and staircases clear at all times
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Conduct regular inspections of electrical wiring and high-risk areas
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Display fire evacuation plans prominently within school premises
Focus on Student Safety and Accountability
Officials said the new regulations are aimed at:
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Improving student safety
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Strengthening accountability of private schools
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Enforcing long-standing education sector regulations across Sindh
The department has indicated that inspections will continue in the coming weeks, and no leniency will be shown to institutions found violating safety or usage rules.
