Chief Education Office (CEO) Baramulla issues explanation to St. Joseph’s Higher Secondary School, Baramulla regarding the pricing of LKG class books and the use of unapproved curriculum
Inayat Qayoom
Baramulla, Jan 3: Parents in Baramulla are raising serious concerns over the rising costs of school books and the use of unapproved curricula by private schools in the district. The controversy has primarily impacted parents of younger students, particularly those in lower classes such as LKG, who allege that schools are exploiting essential educational resources to increase profits.
Many parents have reported that certain private schools in the region are charging exorbitant prices for textbooks. While a few of the books are sourced from the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE), most of the prescribed materials are from private publishers, significantly adding to the financial strain on families.
“It is unfair for schools to impose their own syllabus and burden parents with unnecessary expenses. Many of us are already struggling to make ends meet, and this practice is adding to our stress,” said a concerned parent.
Government Action
The issue has gained the attention of the Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Sakina Itoo, who recently ordered an inquiry into a private school in Srinagar accused of similar practices. Minister Itoo assured the public that strict measures will be taken against any private institution found guilty of charging excessive prices for books.
“Parents should come forward and report any schools demanding high prices for textbooks. Once we receive specific complaints, we will take immediate action,” said Minister Itoo. She encouraged parents to provide the names and locations of schools engaging in such activities.
Local Response in Baramulla
In light of the growing outcry, the Chief Education Office (CEO) Baramulla has issued a notice (Order No. 29678-82) to St. Joseph’s Higher Secondary School, Baramulla, demanding an explanation regarding the pricing of LKG class books and the use of unapproved curriculum. A committee has been formed to investigate these allegations and ensure that schools are adhering to the prescribed educational guidelines.
The inquiry will determine if schools are following the JKBOSE-approved curriculum or if they are introducing additional materials from private publishers, which would be a violation of government regulations.
While parents have welcomed the government’s intervention, they are demanding a district-wide inspection of all private schools. “We appreciate the government’s action, but this issue is not confined to just one school. There needs to be a comprehensive audit to prevent further exploitation of parents,” said another parent.
Official Notice from Fatehgarh Zone
Responding to numerous complaints from parents, Dr. Shamim Ahmad, Principal of Higher Secondary School Fatehgarh, issued a directive to all private schools in the zone.
“I have received multiple messages from parents alleging that some private schools are forcing them to buy textbooks that are not approved by JKBOSE, which is a clear violation of government norms. All private schools in Zone Fatehgarh are hereby directed to strictly adhere to the school education department guidelines and use only JKBOSE-prescribed books. Any deviation from these guidelines will result in strict action as per the rules,” stated Dr. Ahmad.
The ongoing investigation aims to ensure that private schools in Baramulla adhere to government regulations and relieve parents from the undue financial burden of overpriced and unprescribed books. Parents are hopeful that the government’s intervention will result in fair practices and better regulation across the district’s education system.