All private schools and colleges across Sindh will remain closed on January 9 after education associations announced a protest against what they describe as harassment by anti corruption officials, calling it an assault on the dignity of educational institutions.
The announcement was made at a press conference by the Grand Alliance of Private School Associations, which represents sixteen private education bodies operating in both urban and rural areas of Sindh.
The alliance also declared January 8 as a Black Day and appealed to parents, teachers, and school administrations to show unity against what it termed unlawful interference.
Leaders of the alliance said anti corruption officials were acting beyond their mandate by visiting school premises directly, despite court orders that restrict their role to data verification only.
They maintained that the verification process should be carried out strictly at the Directorate of Private Institutions office and not through surprise visits to schools.
According to the alliance, armed teams entering schools, recording videos, and issuing statements were violating court orders and creating fear among students, parents, and staff.
They claimed that parents and children were being treated like criminals, causing emotional stress and disturbing the academic atmosphere in many institutions.
The associations rejected what they called a “self-made” data proforma introduced by the anti corruption department, insisting that only officially approved documents should be used.
They warned that the honour and dignity of private schools were at risk and said they would not allow armed teams to enter educational institutions under any circumstances.
Speakers stressed that private schools are not a burden on the government but a key pillar of the education system, providing education to millions without public funding.
They said unnecessary questioning of school administrations and parents must stop immediately to protect students from psychological harm.
The Grand Alliance announced plans to approach the Sindh High Court against continued harassment and seek enforcement of existing court orders.
Leaders reiterated that court directives allow only data verification and not raids or intimidation, and urged authorities to respect judicial limits.
They also called for immediate action by the Directorate to control the conduct of anti corruption officials and restore confidence in the private education sector.
The alliance emphasized unity among private school bodies and warned that protests could be expanded if their concerns were ignored.
Parents were informed that the January 9 closure would be a peaceful protest aimed at protecting students’ learning environment and institutional independence.