Pune Education Officer Issues Warning to Private Schools on Uniform and Book Sales
Private schools warned against forcing students to purchase uniforms & books from them
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Sanjay Naikwade, the primary education officer of Zilla Parishad Pune, has warned private English-medium schools against forcing students to buy uniforms and textbooks exclusively from them. Complaints from parents about inflated prices have prompted the education department to threaten strict action, including potential withdrawal of school recognition.
- 01Private schools in Pune are prohibited from compelling students to buy uniforms and textbooks solely from them.
- 02Complaints have surfaced regarding inflated prices for uniforms and books, causing financial strain on parents.
- 03Schools exceeding the government-mandated fee hike of 15% every two years will face repercussions.
- 04Parents are encouraged to report any violations to the education department.
- 05The Right to Education Act mandates fair treatment of students, including fee refunds if they leave the school early.
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On April 7, 2023, Sanjay Naikwade, the primary education officer of Zilla Parishad Pune, issued a circular warning private English-medium schools against the practice of compelling students to purchase uniforms and textbooks exclusively from them. This warning comes in response to numerous complaints from parents regarding inflated prices for these essential items, which are often available at lower rates in the open market. The education department has stated that if schools violate these norms, they may face strict penalties, including recommendations for cancellation of their recognition under the Right to Education Act, 2009. Additionally, the department noted that while a fee hike of up to 15% is permitted once every two years, many schools are exceeding this limit, further burdening parents financially. Naikwade emphasized that schools must treat all students, especially those admitted under the Right to Education Act, with dignity and must refund remaining fees if a student leaves within a short period. Parents have been urged to report any coercive practices or irregularities to the education department.
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This warning aims to protect parents from financial exploitation by ensuring they have the freedom to purchase uniforms and textbooks at competitive prices.
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