Friday, 24 MAY 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Given the rise in tuition fees in private schools, citizens have urged the Education department to carry out inspections at these institutions and address the issue. Reports indicate a consistent increase in tuition fees and annual charges at private schools in the city. Experts have pointed out that the Right to Education Act stipulates that private schools can only raise tuition fees after a period of three years, a rule that the schools in the city seem to be disregarding.
Patron at Abhibhavak Ekta Samiti Luv Chaudhary said that the organisation has received multiple complaints from parents regarding private schools in Dehradun overcharging tuition fees. He noted a concerning trend where schools are increasing tuition fees annually rather than every three years. The organisation recently brought this matter to the attention of the Dehradun district magistrate but no action has been taken so far. He further highlighted that the average increase in fees is around 10 to 12 per cent. He stressed on the need for the Education department to address this issue promptly by establishing a committee comprising academic officials. This committee would be responsible for receiving and addressing complaints from parents, subsequently reporting to the schools for necessary action, he added.
Further, president of the National Association for Parents and Students Rights (NAPSR) Arif Khan expressed concerns regarding the escalating tuition fees in private schools, along with additional charges such as annual fees and building fees. Despite numerous complaints filed with the Education department, no action has been taken. To address this issue effectively, it is suggested that the Education department should proactively conduct annual inspections in all schools to monitor and compare the percentage increase in tuition fees, he said.
