K’taka schools yet to implement 30% fee reduction order

Udupi: Even though the State government has ordered a 30 per cent reduction in fees, schools are yet to implement it as no circular has been released in this regard.

In the order, the government had instructed that other than the tuition fees no other fees such as sports fee, laboratory fee, library fee, development fee, donations, term fee, tour fee, swimming pool fee, karate fee, uniforms and transport fare can be received by schools.

Additionally, a high-level committee intended to conduct a State and district level review of complaints from parents and school management on the issues related to non-conducting of classes due to the COVID-19 pandemic has not yet been formed.

Private educational institutions have already appealed for a revision of the order on fee reduction claiming that the government has unscientifically reduced fees and cancelling fees of different categories will result in a 50 to 55 per cent of the total reduction.

“The 30 per cent fee reduction order has been made in the interests of students. But some organizations are opposing it. Another circular on this order will be issued and steps will be taken to return the fees already taken,” said State’s education minister Suresh Kumar.