![Fouri Quorum members presenting a memento to Secretary, School Education Department, Dr Piyush Singla. Fouri Quorum members presenting a memento to Secretary, School Education Department, Dr Piyush Singla.](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/page8-5-6-696x445.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 11: Members of the Fouri Quorum today met Dr Piyush Singla, Secretary, School Education Department (SED) and put forward a compelling case, highlighting the various factors that have necessitated the need for raise in school fee.
During the meeting, members of Fouri Quorum which include Rajiv Gupta (vice president, Chamber of Commerce), Dr Suminder Singh (MD, International Delhi Public School, Jammu), Dheeraj Sharma (MD, IDPS Akhnoor), GN Tantrey (MD, Doon International Jammu), Gambhir Charak (MD, Rich Harvest School), Kunal Saini (MD, Stephans International Jammu) and Raksham Mangi (MD, RM Public School Jammu) exchange their ideas with the Secretary and presented the rationale for the proposed increase in school fees.
The Quorum members emphasized the rising operational costs of the schools and the need to maintain high standards of education, infrastructure, and facilities. They underscored the challenges posed by inflation, increased utility expenses and the need to recruit & retain qualified teaching and non-teaching staff. The representatives also discussed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the schools’ financial position, including the costs incurred in implementing health and safety measures in line with Government guidelines.
Singla expressed understanding of the schools’ challenges and acknowledged the need for adequate financial resources to maintain educational standards. Additionally, he sought assurances that the potential hike in fees would be justified and proportionate to the improvements and enhancements that would directly benefit the students and the overall educational experience.
The discussion also delved into the importance of ensuring that the increase in school fees would not create an undue financial burden on parents and guardians. The school management assured that they would implement measures to provide financial assistance to families facing economic hardships, as well as explore options for phased payment plans to ease the impact of the fee adjustment.