Strict Bans on Coaching Centers and Note-Guides: Draft 'Education Act 2026' Unveiled

According to Section 15 of the draft, all forms of commercial coaching and unauthorized guidebooks will be banned within three to five years of the act's implementation. Education Advisor Professor Dr. C.R. Abrar stated that this initiative seeks to establish education as a fundamental citizen right within a solid legal framework. The Ministry of Education has invited public feedback on the draft, which can be submitted via email until 5:00 PM on February 7.

The draft act categorizes education into primary and secondary levels up to class twelve, making primary education free and compulsory. For the first time, proposals have been included to improve the quality of Qawmi Madrasa education and ensure mother-tongue instruction for ethnic minority children. To ensure student safety, the law strictly prohibits physical punishment, mental harassment, ragging, and cyberbullying, categorizing such acts as professional misconduct for teachers. Additionally, the draft suggests a uniform grading system for undergraduate levels, unique IDs for every student, and a common minimum qualification for recruiting public university teachers. This comprehensive act is designed to take precedence over any conflicting existing laws to ensure a streamlined educational governance.