MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Private Educational Institutions Registration Authority (PEIRA) has directed private educational institutions not to directly ask students for fees or to deposit them at the school.
A circular issued by the PEIRA states that complaints had been received that some institutions were following this practice, which is against the self-respect, welfare, and academic ethics of the students.
According to the circular, the collection of fees will be handled by the parents or guardians, whereas the students will not be questioned regarding the fee submission. Teachers, staff, or principals will be allowed to demand fees from students inside or outside the classroom.
Announcements or reminders regarding fees are strictly prohibited, and the financial status of the students’ families will be kept confidential. No student will be stopped from attending classes, appearing for examinations, or other educational activities due to non-payment of fees, notification added.
All private educational institutions will set up a separate accounts office to handle fee matters.
PEIRA has clarified that these measures have been taken in the best interest of students and their implementation is mandatory for all private institutions.
In case of any violation, strict action will be taken under the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Private Educational Institutions (Promotion and Regulation) Act, 2007.
This development comes after a student committed suicide after teachers allegedly questioned him and humiliated him due to the non-submission of fees. Under pressure, the student took his life.
