In a move aimed at ensuring fair practices and enhancing transparency in the private education sector, the Rajasthan education department has rolled out a comprehensive set of guidelines for private schools across the state.
Under the new regulations, private schools in Rajasthan are prohibited from increasing their fees for three consecutive academic years. Additionally, parents are now empowered to purchase uniforms and books from external markets, offering them greater flexibility and potentially reducing financial burdens.
Central to the guidelines is the establishment of a committee comprising both parents and teachers tasked with finalizing the fee structure for each private school. This committee, according to the directives, will determine the appropriate fee amount, with full transparency ensured through the public disclosure of committee members’ names, addresses, and contact information on the school’s portal.
Any deviation from the approved fee structure is deemed illegal, and schools found overcharging may face punitive action under the Fees Act. Furthermore, any excess fees collected from parents must be promptly refunded.
In a bid to foster closer collaboration between schools and parents, the guidelines mandate the organization of regular parent-teacher meetings to address student and school management-related concerns.
Emphasizing inclusivity, the education department has underscored the importance of compliance with regulations concerning specially-abled and female students.
Moreover, private schools affiliated with various educational boards, including the Board of Secondary Education Rajasthan, CBSE, CISCE, and CAIE, are required to adhere to prescribed norms when selecting academic materials. Detailed information regarding textbooks, including author names and prices, must be prominently displayed on school notice boards and websites at least one month prior to the start of the academic session.
To ensure accountability and accessibility, private schools are obligated to report instances of student harassment promptly, with swift action promised against perpetrators. Additionally, the guidelines mandate the dissemination of information to the District Education Officer, as well as the public posting and online publication of the directives within school premises.
The introduction of these comprehensive guidelines marks a significant step towards promoting equity, transparency, and parental involvement in private education across Rajasthan. With a focus on fair fee structures, inclusive practices, and proactive measures against harassment, the education department aims to create an environment conducive to the holistic development of students.
