CCP grants private schools additional time to ensure due process

News Desk 

Islamabad: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) on Wednesday granted additional time to private schools to submit their replies to the show-cause notices issued recently by the Commission.

According to a CCP press release, the extension was granted after major private school systems requested additional time to file their responses.

“After considering these requests, and to ensure due process and a fair, transparent opportunity of hearing for all parties, the Commission has granted an extension until December 30, 2025, for submission of responses. Some school systems have already submitted their written replies,” the press release said.

The proceedings relate to alleged violations of Section 4 of the Competition Act, 2010, concerning abuse of dominant position, particularly the requirement that parents purchase branded uniforms, stationery, and other mandatory supplies exclusively from designated vendors.

The school systems issued show-cause notices include Beaconhouse School System, The City School, Headstart, Lahore Grammar School (LGS), Froebel’s, Roots International, Roots Millennium, KIPS, Allied Schools, Super Nova, Dar-e-Arqam, STEP School, Westminster International, United Charter School and The Smart School, among others.

Upon receipt of the replies, the CCP will schedule hearings, during which the concerned schools or their authorized counsel will be given an opportunity to present their cases in accordance with the law.

CCP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu reiterated that the education sector is a vital public-interest domain with a direct impact on millions of households. He said the Commission remains committed to ensuring fair competition, safeguarding consumer welfare, and conducting proceedings in a transparent, impartial and lawful manner.