Education is often regarded as the foundation of a progressive society, a pathway to enlightenment and empowerment. However, the current state of affairs in the education sector raises serious concerns. The steep pricing of textbooks and school essentials, driven by an evident coordination between schools and vendors, is burdening families and creating an atmosphere where education is being treated less as a right and more as a lucrative business venture.
The case of a 150-page book priced at ₹1050 is just one example of how costs are spiraling out of control. Many schools, while striving to provide quality education, inadvertently or otherwise, contribute to this problem by mandating the purchase of specific books, uniforms, and other items from select vendors. This creates a near-monopolistic environment, leaving parents with little choice but to comply. Such practices not only strain household budgets but also send a worrying message—that profit is being prioritized over the accessibility of education.
While posters and slogans displayed in shops and schools carry lofty ideals like “Haza min Fazli Rabbi” (This is by the Grace of my Lord) and “Min Az-Zulumati Ila An-Nur” (From Darkness to Light), the reality experienced by many families does not align with these values. The noble pursuit of education appears overshadowed by practices that prioritize financial gain over fairness.
This situation calls for introspection and corrective action. Schools and vendors must recognize their role as partners in shaping a just and inclusive educational environment. At the same time, policymakers have a critical responsibility to ensure that education remains accessible to all. The introduction of transparent guidelines, the regulation of prices for school essentials, and the promotion of competition in the market are necessary steps. These measures can help curb excessive costs while fostering trust between schools and the communities they serve.
Education should never become a source of financial strain for families. It is a shared responsibility to ensure that the path to learning remains accessible, equitable, and aligned with the ideals of empowerment. A balanced approach, driven by collaboration and thoughtful legislation, can create a system where both schools and families thrive, and where education fulfills its true purpose of uplifting society.
