PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
At a time when parents of many school children feel frustrated by the attitude of schools when it comes to the purchase of textbooks and other study material, some schools in Dehradun are setting an example. One such institution is the Doon International School (DIS) has set a precedent by adopting a transparent policy, allowing students to purchase books from any bookstore. This decision has brought relief to students and parents alike. Notably, as the new academic year commences, reports have emerged of several private schools pressuring parents to buy expensive textbooks from specific vendors.
DIS principal Dinesh Bartwal stated that the school’s management does not compel students to buy books from a specific bookstore. Parents are free to purchase books from any retailer that suits their needs and preferences. He also said that to ensure transparency, the list of books for each class was posted on the school’s notice board during the Parent-Teacher Meeting (PTM) when results were distributed. Additionally, for the convenience of parents, the book list is now accessible via WhatsApp and other digital platforms. Bartwal further informed that the school has taken significant steps to alleviate financial burdens. He emphasised that parents are welcome to utilise any old books obtained from former students if they have access to them.
In discussing the rationale for this initiative, Bartwal expressed the school’s clear objectives: “Our aim is to secure the future of our students, rather than impose financial burdens on parents. Educational institutions should prioritise transparency as they are centers of learning. We believe that parents will appreciate this newfound freedom.”
