
The teachers and staff working under the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) staged a demonstration outside the National Press Club, pressing for the reinstatement of tax rebates, grant of education allowances, and improvement in their four-tier service structure.
The protest, led by the Joint Education Action Committee (JEAC), brought together members from various organizations, including the Federal Government College Teachers Association (FGCTA), Heads Association, Schools Association, Non-Teaching Association, and the Central Academic Staff Association of Model Colleges (CASA).

Protesters voiced their frustrations over mounting financial pressures, particularly the withdrawal of the 100% tax rebate for teachers. Previously set at 75% before 2012, the rebate was progressively slashed to 40%, then 25%, before being completely abolished.
FGCTA General Secretary, Professor Tahir Bhatti, condemned the government’s financial policies, highlighting the disparity in salary adjustments. “While Members of the National Assembly enjoy a 400% salary increase, teachers have been stripped of their tax relief.

Globally, educators receive incentives, but in Pakistan, the few benefits we had are being taken away. This will demoralize teachers and negatively affect education quality,” he asserted.
JEAC Chairman, Fazal-e-Maula, criticized the unequal distribution of allowances across government departments. “Other sectors receive executive allowances, transport benefits, and additional perks, but the education sector is ignored. We demand an education allowance equal to the current basic pay for both teaching and non-teaching staff under FDE,” he demanded.

CASA representatives, including Professor Rasheed Khan, Dr. Rahima Rehman, and Altaf Hussain, urged the government to recognize the crucial role of educators. Similarly, Dr. Amanullah from Quaid-i-Azam University called for the restoration of tax exemptions, citing the financial strain caused by inflation and rising taxes.

Danish Yaseen, a participating teacher, emphasized the declining appeal of the profession. “Instead of supporting teachers, the government is making teaching financially unsustainable. This will deter talented individuals from entering the field,” he cautioned.

Protesters warned of escalating demonstrations if their demands remained unaddressed. They urged the authorities to take immediate action in addressing their concerns and ensuring educators receive fair compensation.