School fees soar, but does the quality match

School admissions are no less than admission to top engineering and management colleges. In terms of competition, stress and money spent, it's as big as college admissions. The schools in Karnataka are in the firing line again. Many parents protested the increase in school fee following which the Karnataka government has fixed a 30 per cent profit margin for private schools.

This order was issued only after parents complained that they are being enforced to buy books and uniforms at exorbitant rates from schools. In fact some schools charge as much as Rs 3500 for one set of uniform which is higher than perhaps a branded shirt.

The profit that schools make these days is way more that 100 percent. From building fees to computer fees, all are charged and included in the school fees. Even bags and shoes that are sold in the school range from Rs 500 and Rs 1400 respectively.

Kumar Adiga- President of the parents' association decided to fight against it. Kumar's very efforts led to the circular from the Karnataka education department. The circular says tuition fees should not exceed a profit of 30 per cent and schools cannot charge any non-tuition fees up to class five. However, the schools do not seem very happy with this order.

Karnataka Unaided School' Association President GS Sharma came to the rescue and was alleged saying "Education means not mere reading and writing; you have to provide libraries, AV, sports, laboratory and other facilities, innumerable requirements"

Nevertheless, the government is firm on its stand and says it is high time that schools are brought in line.

"We have considered reasonably well what should be the fee structure. We are also seeking legal side and what we're saying, in any case, follow transparency." Commissioner for Public Instruction Tushar Girinath said. (Read more)

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