Take us on board while framing policies: PSAJK interim president to Govt

Srinagar, Oct 13: The Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) on Monday urged the government to involve the private education sector in policy-making, emphasising cooperation rather than confrontation.

Addressing reporters in Srinagar, newly elected interim president Nazrul Islam Baba said the association was not in conflict with the government.

“Being the major stakeholder in the education sector, the government should take the private school association on board while framing policies, particularly those affecting private schools,” Baba said.

He added that the interim body, elected for a three-month term, will draft a roadmap aimed at overall progress of the private education sector.

“We want to work in coordination with parents, the government, and other stakeholders to make private education more progressive,” he said.

On teachers’ issues and grievances, Baba said the association would represent all stakeholders associated with private schools, directly or indirectly.

“We will ensure that no private school is exploited in any way,” he asserted.

Speaking on the functioning of schools, he highlighted the challenges faced by budget schools. “Many budget schools are running at a loss because the fees collected from students are insufficient to meet operational requirements. In such circumstances, teachers often do not receive adequate salaries,” Baba explained.

On the matter of donations and admission fees, he reminded parents that the government has completely banned such charges. “If parents pay donations without receiving receipts, it becomes difficult to prove it later. Parents should raise their concerns before making any payment to schools,” he said.