Private schools of Islamabad: Senate body for implementation of 10pc free education quota

The Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training, chaired by Senator Bushra Anjum Butt, called for immediate implementation of the 10 percent free education quota in Islamabad’s private schools. Officials reported that the Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (PIERA) monitors compliance but lacks data from some schools, while eligibility now includes registered out-of-school children. Butt expressed concern over delays and weak enforcement, ordering authorities to ensure strict adherence and suggesting performance-based incentives for compliant schools. The committee also approved the Iqra Global University Bill, 2026, after addressing Higher Education Commission (HEC) objections, though it must comply with HEC’s revised requirements. The committee reviewed unresolved degree attestation issues, with HEC forming a scrutiny committee to resolve delays affecting degree holders. Butt demanded faster action and assured affected students of support. Additionally, students raised concerns about alleged paper leaks in Cambridge A-Level exams, prompting Butt to direct the Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) to investigate with student representation and engage Cambridge authorities. Discussions on the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) were postponed due to the absence of the sub-committee convener. The committee also addressed gaps in policies for visually impaired persons, directing the Director General of Special Education to consult stakeholders and resolve outstanding issues under the Ministry’s supervision. Finally, the committee endorsed a Karachi-based volunteer initiative promoting financial literacy among youth, instructing the Federal Education Secretary and HEC Executive Director to facilitate coordination with educational institutions.