Sindh Textbook Board (STBB) Chairman Abdul Aleem Lashari has announced that the board will commence the distribution of textbooks to government schools in Sindh starting today, July 31.
At a press conference in Jamshoro on Tuesday, Lashari highlighted that despite facing numerous challenges, the board is on track to meet its textbook printing goals for the year. He explained that delays in distribution were due to obstacles and legal issues encountered during the tender process.
The STBB has prepared 445,300 sets of textbooks for government schools in the province, with distribution beginning today and expected to conclude by August 15. Lashari noted that 80% of the printing work has been completed, amounting to 24.3 million books.
To combat book piracy, the board will affix a special sticker to the textbooks. Publishers who infringe on copyright will face strict legal action, he added.
Addressing concerns about book availability, Lashari acknowledged last year’s issues related to fluctuations in the dollar value, inflation, and rising petrol prices, and assured that this year’s printing process would proceed without disruption.
He dismissed accusations of favoritism in the tender process, clarifying that issuing tenders is a legal requirement and no publisher is allowed to receive more than two packages.
Lashari also noted that the board’s condition has greatly improved since last year, with its printing machine now capable of two-color printing. The upgrade of the printing press is currently under legal review.
