The Indian government, in a significant move, has introduced new guidelines for private coaching institutions, aiming to regulate the sector more stringently. These guidelines include a ban on enrolling students under the age of 16 and imposing penalties for non-compliance.
Restriction on Student Enrolment
As per the new directives, coaching centers are prohibited from enrolling students below 16 years of age. This measure is seen as a response to the increasing incidents of student suicides and other issues related to coaching centers.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Institutions failing to adhere to these orders will face fines up to one lakh rupees, and their registration could be canceled. The government’s action is believed to be a response to rising concerns about the mental health of students and the operational practices of these coaching centers.
Guidelines for Coaching Centers
- Qualifications of Tutors: No coaching center is allowed to appoint tutors with less than graduate-level qualifications.
- Promotional Claims: Institutions cannot make misleading claims or guarantees about rankings or grades.
- Enrollment of Young Students: Enrollment of students under 16 years of age is prohibited.
- Student Registration: Students should only be registered in coaching institutions after passing secondary school examinations.
Transparency and Accountability
The guidelines also mandate coaching centers to maintain transparency about their faculty qualifications, course materials, duration, hostel facilities, and fees. They are also required to refrain from publishing any misleading advertisements.
Support for Students
Coaching institutions are urged to establish a department for immediate intervention in stressful situations, ensuring continuous support for students. They must operate classes without exerting unnecessary pressure on students.
Fee Refund Policy
The guidelines specify that the fee structure for various courses should be transparent and logical, with mandatory receipts provided for fee payments. If a student leaves a course midway, the remaining fee should be refunded.
Fine for Violation
The government has warned that a fine of up to one lakh rupees will be imposed for violating these guidelines, and excessive fee collection could lead to the cancellation of registration.
Monitoring and Registration
The government proposes the registration of new and existing coaching institutions within three months of these guidelines becoming effective. State governments will be responsible for monitoring the activities of coaching centers.
In conclusion, these new guidelines are a significant step by the Indian government to regulate the burgeoning private coaching sector, aiming to safeguard the interests and well-being of students. The move reflects a growing recognition of the need for quality control and ethical practices in education.
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