In recent years, a growing concern has emerged in Jammu and Kashmir regarding the increasing financial burden on parents, particularly in private schools. What once was a straightforward and affordable educational journey for many families has now become a source of anxiety, with rising costs for admission, uniforms, books, and other essential services.
Previously, private schools charged a one-time admission fee, which was a reasonable practice. However, over time, we have seen an unfortunate shift. Schools have started charging annual fees under different headings, such as “annual maintenance fee,” “sports fee,” and “event fee,” many of which were not a part of the previous fee structure. This shift has led to an increased financial burden on families who were already managing their household expenses with care.
Similarly, the cost of uniforms has increased significantly. What once required parents to purchase a single set of uniforms has now expanded to multiple sets, including special uniforms for different occasions, winter uniforms, and seasonal uniforms. This additional expenditure, often unanticipated, further stretches the already limited budgets of parents.
The situation doesn’t end with uniforms. The cost of books, stationery, and other educational materials has also risen, and in some cases, schools have tied up with specific vendors, making it difficult for parents to explore more affordable options. These rising costs have added an unnecessary layer of stress on families who are working hard to provide the best possible education for their children.
It is in this context that we call on the LG Administration and the elected government to step in and ensure that the education system remains accessible and fair for all. We acknowledge the important role that private schools play in offering quality education, but it is essential that their fee structures and practices are transparent and reasonable.
We urge the government to introduce regulations that can help alleviate the financial strain on parents. A transparent fee structure that clearly outlines the purpose of each fee, and measures to prevent arbitrary price hikes, would go a long way in building trust between schools and the families they serve. Additionally, schools should be encouraged to collaborate with multiple vendors for uniforms and books, ensuring that parents have access to affordable options.
It is our sincere hope that the government will take these concerns seriously and work towards creating a more balanced approach to education in Jammu and Kashmir. Education should never be a privilege determined by financial capability, but rather a right accessible to every child. By putting measures in place that protect families from rising educational costs, we can ensure that every child has an equal opportunity to learn and grow.
We remain optimistic that the LG Administration and the elected government will take meaningful steps to address these challenges, and in doing so, ensure a fair and just educational environment for all.
