Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Mar 24: The Jammu and Kashmir Unaided Private Schools Association (JKUPS) today demanded greater autonomy for private schools, asserting that it does not seek Government subsidies but a regulatory framework that allows institutions to function with accountability.
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Addressing a press conference here, Association president Showkat Choudhary said unaided private schools are facing multiple challenges within the existing education system and called for policy measures to address them.
“We are not seeking any subsidies. Our demand is limited to autonomy for private schools, with necessary checks and action against violators,” he said.
Choudhary rejected allegations of arbitrary fee fixation, stating that fees are regulated by the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC).
He said schools do not determine fees independently, adding that the structure is based on expenditure, infrastructure, curriculum and income, and is subject to scrutiny.
“All records are submitted to the FFRC, and there is a review mechanism involving both schools and parents,” he said.
On the issue of textbooks, Choudhary said concerns over rising prices have drawn criticism, but maintained that quality education requires standard books.
He added that NCERT publishers would ensure availability of books, with decisions to be taken jointly by school managements and parent bodies-a proposal already placed before a Government-constituted committee. Clarifying its position on transport charges, Choudhary said schools are not transporters and do not earn profits from transport or the sale of books and uniforms.
“If any school is found doing so, it is illegal and should be dealt with accordingly,” he said, adding that isolated instances should not be generalised.
To address traffic congestion during school hours, the Association proposed staggered school timings across different zones, suggesting start times of 9:00 am, 9:15 am and 9:30 am, with a similar pattern for closing hours.
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