Noted educationists in Hyderabad have suggested the establishment of a school assessment and accreditation council, similar to those in other states, to prevent private educational institutions from charging excessive fees. Prof. K Shankaraiah, a former dean and coordinator, recommends that the government improve infrastructure and recruit teachers in government schools to attract and retain more students, reducing the demand for private schools and promoting inclusive education. He also suggests rationalizing private school fees based on investments made in infrastructure and teaching arrangements. Another important solution proposed is the creation of a school assessment and accreditation council by the state government to regulate quality education and fee rationalization.
Thirupathi Rao, a former vice-chancellor of Osmania University, emphasizes the need for schools to obtain approval from the state regulatory committee before increasing fees by more than 10%. He also suggests transparent financial transactions and submission of audited documents by school managements to ensure accountability. This approach would reduce the burden of regularly scrutinizing accounts of all private schools and encourage self-regulation. Prof PL Vishweshwar Rao, another former principal, calls for the formation of a committee for schools similar to the one for colleges. School managements would justify their high fees based on their infrastructure, with a need for a system of grading institutions like colleges and universities have through the National Assessment and Accreditation Council.
Mohammed Abid Ali, an overseas study adviser, highlights the growing concern over escalating fees in private schools and debates on whether it constitutes economic exploitation. Lack of transparency in fee structures makes it difficult for parents to understand where their money is allocated. While private schools argue that high fees are necessary for maintaining standards, there is a call for greater accountability and regulation. Proposed reforms include standardized fee structures, periodic audits, and stricter oversight to ensure that private institutions fulfill their educational promises without exploiting parents economically.
