ICT-PEIRA’s Major Initiative: Comprehensive Data Campaign Launched to Make Islamabad a Zero Out-of-School Children District

The Islamabad Capital Territory Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (ICT-PEIRA) has launched a comprehensive campaign to collect accurate and verified enrollment data of students studying in private educational institutions. The objective of this initiative is to strengthen educational planning in the federal capital and to determine the exact number of Out-of-School Children (OOSC). The decision was made during a meeting chaired by ICT-PEIRA Chairman Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah, which was attended by representatives of private educational institutions, officials from the Federal Directorate of Education, the Federal Board, and PEIRA officers. The purpose of the meeting was to gather transparent and authentic data in collaboration with educational institutions. Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah stated that the provision of accurate student data is crucial, as it will help determine the actual number of children enrolled in each Union Council of Islamabad. He further explained that, based on verified data, the government will accurately identify OOSC and formulate an effective strategy to declare Islamabad a Zero OOSC district, in line with the announcement made by the Federal Minister for Education. He clarified that the initiative is not intended to take action against private schools but to promote partnership with them. Accurate data will help identify areas where gaps in educational facilities exist and where immediate attention is required. On the request of representatives of private educational institutions, ICT-PEIRA has announced a one-time amnesty from March 1 to April 30, 2026. During this period, institutions seeking late registration or renewal will be granted relief in fines to facilitate their inclusion in the regulatory framework. The Authority has appealed to all private educational institutions to provide a complete and accurate list of schools operating in their respective areas so that every institution becomes part of the formal system and the overall quality of education can be further improved. ICT-PEIRA has reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders to promote quality, inclusive, and comprehensive education in Islamabad.