Sindh Orders Crackdown on Private Schools Operating in Unsafe Buildings
KARACHI:The Sindh School Education Department has introduced a zero-tolerance policy against private schools operating in dangerous and unsafe buildings, directing authorities to launch a comprehensive inspection drive within 15 days.
In a letter issued to the Directorate General of Inspection and Registration of Private Institutions Sindh, the department instructed officials to identify buildings that are dangerous, partially damaged or structurally unsafe.
According to the letter, concerns over the safety of students studying in hazardous buildings were raised during a meeting chaired by the Secretary of School Education on October 16. The meeting made it clear that educational activities would not be permitted in any building, or any part of a building, declared dangerous or unsafe.
The department directed authorities to immediately suspend educational activities in unsafe buildings or their affected sections and shift students to safe and suitable alternative locations to ensure that their education is not disrupted.
Officials were also instructed to coordinate with private school associations and ensure that educational institutions immediately comply with prescribed building safety standards.
The letter held school owners and principals responsible for the safety of students and staff, warning that negligence or failure to comply with official directives would result in action under the relevant laws.
The registration status of private schools operating in dangerous or unsafe buildings will also be reviewed. Regulatory action, including closure where necessary, will be taken in accordance with applicable rules.
The department further ordered officials to identify unregistered educational institutions and initiate legal proceedings against them.
The Directorate General has been directed to submit a comprehensive report within 15 days, detailing school inspections, identified unsafe buildings, affected students, relocation arrangements and action taken against institutions violating safety requirements.
The department emphasised that protecting children’s lives remains its top priority and that no compromise will be made on student safety.
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