Srinagar, Apr 13
In defiance of directives from the Committee for Fixation and Regulation of Fees of Private Schools, J&K (JKFFRC), numerous private schools across Jammu and Kashmir have proceeded to hike fees, prompting apprehension among parents regarding the accessibility and fairness of education.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, parents from both regions of Jammu and Kashmir voiced their apprehensions regarding the escalating fees in private schools, particularly those affiliated with CBSE and JKBOSE. They lamented that these schools have disregarded the directives of the JKFFRC, taking advantage of the new academic session to burden families with higher education costs compared to government schools.
The parents highlighted the various types of fees they are required to pay, particularly computer fees. They pointed out that the JKFFRC has not approved this fee and has not instructed private schools to charge students for computer-related expenses.
KhurshidKhoja, President of the Parents Association of Private School Kashmir, emphasized that private schools in Kashmir affiliated with CBSE and JKBOSE have failed to implement the orders and fees set by the JKFFRC for private schools.
Khoja said that a majority of parents in Jammu and Kashmir cannot afford the exorbitant fees demanded by private schools on a monthly basis. Additionally, parents are burdened with the cost of purchasing additional textbooks from the market, which are not recommended by the JKBOSE and CBSE. These additional textbooks are significantly more expensive compared to the recommended ones.
Tajamul Ahmad, a parent, expressed concerns about the limited seats in private school buses, leading to students having to make adjustments. The overcrowding in these buses is also a major issue. Due to private schools not providing buses with adequate seat capacity, students are facing transportation difficulties provided by the schools.
“It is imperative for the motor vehicle department and school education department to ensure that school buses comply with seat capacity regulations. Parents should pay transport fees based on the bus’s seating capacity,” he said.
Another parent from Jammu division shared, “My son studies in a reputed Public school in Jammu district. We have been asked to pay the school fees in advance and also annual charges. The school has not followed the JKFFRC order.”
“Parents are also required to purchase two sets of uniforms – school uniform and sports uniform – at a high cost compared to market prices. The JKFFRC and school education department must take action against private schools not adhering to regulations, ensuring that every parent can afford their children’s education,” he added.
Justice Sunil Hali, Chairperson of the Committee for Fixation and Regulation of Fee of Private Schools J&K said that private schools in Jammu and Kashmir have been instructed not to increase fees without committee approval.
“We have already directed all the private schools of the J&K to refund any advance fees collected from parents. Parents can approach the committee to address issues related to fee hikes by private schools,” Justice Hali said.
He said that the committee has received complaints from several parents about the private schools. The JKFFRC has taken appropriate measures against these private schools.
