Private School Operators Clarify Mandatory Tuition Fees for Baisakh

Kathmandu. Four umbrella organizations representing private school operators have stated that school fees for the month of Baisakh must be paid mandatorily. 

Dismissing reports circulating on social media and some media outlets claiming that 'fees for Baisakh do not need to be paid' or that 'it is free' as misleading and baseless, the operators issued a statement on Friday to clarify the matter. 

PABSON, N-PABSON, HISSAN, and APEN issued a joint statement urging parents and stakeholders not to be misled by baseless information. The statement notes that private schools are operating in accordance with the Education Act, regulations, and laws issued by local levels after receiving formal permission from the Government of Nepal.

According to the operators, school fee structures are determined in accordance with prevailing laws. They expressed concern that presenting schools in a one-sided and negative manner could adversely affect students' morale and learning achievements. 

Clarifying the fee structure, the statement says, 'Admission fees (equivalent to one month's tuition), monthly tuition fees (12 months), and annual fees (equivalent to double the monthly tuition), along with other fees prescribed by law, will be applicable.' In addition, separate fees must be paid if additional services such as meals, transportation, and special training are availed.

The operators explained that since private schools operate without any government grants or support from donor agencies, they are compelled to cover the salaries of teachers and staff and infrastructure obligations through these fees. 'The fees applicable for the month of Baisakh will remain as they are,' the statement says, 'We urge parents not to be misled by false propaganda claiming that no fees need to be paid.'