By: Akshaykumar Doddamani
With the pandemic rendering many jobless and families in financial distress, many parents are shifting their children to government schools in Dharwad district because they cannot afford fees in private institutions.
Most children in urban areas of the district studied in private schools. However, education department sources in the district say admissions have increased in government schools after the pandemic hit. They say 15,297 students have left private schools and moved to government institutions.
Despite protests and pleas from parents to reduce fees, many private schools have not budged and are forcing parents to pay full fees. Parents told TOI that they had no issues paying the full fee before the pandemic hit since they had well-paying jobs.
“But now we have lost our jobs, some have had salary cuts and are getting meagre pay. We cannot afford private school fees. So, we have enrolled our children in government schools,” parents said.
Kumar Bendigeri, a resident of Tadasinkoppa said, “Earlier, my son was studying in a private school in class VI. But now, because of a severe financial crisis, I have moved my son to a government school.”
Mohan Hanchate, deputy director of public instruction, said compared to last year, 93% of children in the district have enrolled in schools and the admission process is still on. After the pandemic hit the nation, many parents are now keen to send their wards to government schools, he said.
