PASWA president defends private schools, questions fee cap amidst political criticism

THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK

Ranchi, April 13: Alok Kumar Dubey, National President of the Private Schools and Children Welfare Association (PASWA), has strongly defended private schools in Jharkhand amidst rising criticism.

Speaking on Sunday, he accused political and administrative figures of hypocrisy, revealing that many who now question private institutions once sought admission for their children through recommendation letters.

Dubey, also general secretary of the Congress in Jharkhand, argued that these letters are more than just bureaucratic formalities—they are proof of the confidence that influential figures place in the educational quality and discipline offered by private schools. “If those letters are made public, many masks will fall,” he stated, suggesting that public criticism is driven more by political motives than genuine concern.

Government Officials Must Lead by Example

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Highlighting the gap between words and action, Dubey urged government officers and officials to set an example by enrolling their children in government schools. He believes this shift would create a direct accountability loop and raise the standards of public education.

Fee Regulation Sparks Debate

On the topic of fee regulation, Dubey expressed concern over the recent move by Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to intervene in the fee structures of private schools. While the intention may be to protect parents from unjustified hikes, Dubey warned that such interference could be counterproductive.

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“Private schools are not profiteering entities—they are service providers,” he said. “Fee structures reflect the cost of quality education, including trained teachers, modern infrastructure, and diverse learning opportunities.”

He also cautioned against a one-size-fits-all approach, noting the vast diversity among private institutions—from elite-affiliated schools to rural setups charging as little as ₹500 per month. “Regulations should consider this diversity, or we risk hurting schools that are barely sustaining themselves,” he added.

Need for Balanced Oversight and Encouragement

Dubey acknowledged that oversight is necessary but called for reforms through active and effective regulatory committees, not punitive measures. He praised Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s collaborative approach to education and urged continued support for private institutions, which he called the “backbone of Jharkhand’s education system.”

A Call to the Public and Government

Dubey concluded with an appeal to both the government and the public: avoid falling for orchestrated campaigns that demonise private schools. “Ninety percent of parents have no complaints. Those making the most noise are often the same ones who lobbied hardest for admission,” he said.

As the debate over the role and regulation of private schools continues, Dubey’s comments underscore the need for a nuanced and transparent conversation around educational reform in Jharkhand.