The Rawalpindi Board of Education has announced an increase in examination fees for matriculation and intermediate students, introducing new charges that may pose financial challenges for many families.
Details of the Fee Increase
The board has added several new fees alongside raising existing ones. Key changes include:
- A Rs30 fee for CCTV camera monitoring during exams
- An unspecified miscellaneous fee of Rs900 per student
- Certificate fees raised from Rs550 to Rs1,000
- Development charges set at Rs350
- Postal expenses fixed at Rs300
- Scholarship fee established at Rs250
These changes were communicated through an official circular sent to students and educational institutions.
Concerns Raised by Parents and Students
The increase in fees has sparked concern among parents and students, particularly those from low-income and middle-class families. Many fear that the higher costs could limit access to education and place additional financial strain on households.
As education remains a critical pathway for social mobility, stakeholders emphasize the need to balance necessary administrative costs with affordability to ensure inclusive access for all students.
