Make govt schools attractive

Equal access to quality education begins with ensuring that every child, irrespective of economic background, gets the basic resources needed to learn. The announcement about providing free textbooks and uniforms to students in government schools is therefore a welcome step towards reducing the gap between public and private educational institutions. For many families, the cost of education remains a significant burden. Expensive textbooks, uniforms and other learning materials often add to the financial difficulties of parents, particularly those belonging to economically weaker sections. Providing these essentials free of cost can ease that burden while ensuring that children are not deprived of educational opportunities because of their family’s financial condition. The Books Day initiative is also a positive move, as timely distribution of textbooks can help students begin their academic sessions without unnecessary delays. However, the government must ensure that books and uniforms reach students before the commencement of classes. Announcements alone cannot bring the desired change unless they are translated into effective implementation. The Minister’s concern over private schools charging exorbitant prices for textbooks also deserves attention. Book sets costing Rs 6,000, Rs 7,000 and even Rs 10,000 can put considerable pressure on parents. The government must examine these practices, ensure transparency in the prescribed book lists and take appropriate action against institutions indulging in unreasonable pricing. At the same time, making government schools attractive requires more than free facilities. Quality teaching, adequate staff, improved infrastructure, modern learning facilities and accountability are equally important. Parents will develop confidence in government institutions when they see consistent improvement in academic standards. The objective should not merely be to provide free books and uniforms but to build a public education system where children receive opportunities and facilities comparable to those available in private schools. This requires sustained investment, effective monitoring and a clear commitment to educational equality.