In a landmark move, the government has introduced a set of comprehensive guidelines to regulate coaching institutes across the country. These guidelines aim to address a range of concerns, including the age of students, teacher qualifications, deceptive assurances, and most importantly, the mental well-being of students. The decision to establish a legal framework comes in response to various issues such as student suicides, fire incidents, inadequate facilities, and questionable teaching methods reported in coaching institutes.
Age Restriction and Teacher Qualifications:
Under the new guidelines, coaching institutes are prohibited from admitting students under 16. Enrollment in coaching institutes is allowed only after the secondary school examination is completed. Additionally, coaching institutes are now mandated to hire teachers with qualifications no lower than graduation, ensuring a higher standard of education.
Deceptive Assurances and False Promises:
Coaching institutes are restricted from making deceptive assurances, such as guaranteeing high marks or rankings. False promises to parents regarding student enrollment, rank assurance, or guaranteed high marks are strictly prohibited. The guidelines emphasize transparency and honesty in advertising the quality of coaching and facilities provided by the institutes.
Counseling System and Mental Well-being:
Recognizing the competitive and academic pressures on students, the guidelines urge coaching institutes to conduct classes with sensitivity, minimizing undue stress. A crucial aspect of the guidelines is the establishment of a counseling system to provide immediate intervention and sustained assistance to students in distress and stressful situations. Trained counselors are encouraged to be appointed within coaching institutes, and tutors may undergo training in mental health issues to communicate effectively with students about areas of improvement.
Transparent Fee Structure and Refunds:
The guidelines stipulate that coaching institutes must maintain a website with updated information on teacher qualifications, syllabus completion periods, hostel facilities, and fees. The guidelines mandate fair and reasonable tuition fees for different courses to address concerns about fees. If a student discontinues a course prematurely, the institute is required to provide a refund for the remaining period on a pro-rata basis within 10 days. Exorbitant fees leading to undue stress or malpractices may result in fines of up to Rs 1 lakh or the cancellation of institute registration.
Government Oversight and Registration:
To facilitate effective oversight, the government proposes registering both new and existing coaching institutes within three months of the guidelines taking effect. State governments will be responsible for monitoring the activities of coaching institutes, and ensuring compliance with the guidelines. The guidelines acknowledge the role of state and union territory governments in regulating +2 level education.
These comprehensive guidelines mark a significant step towards reforming and regulating the private coaching industry in the country. By addressing various issues such as age restrictions, teacher qualifications, deceptive assurances, and mental well-being, the government aims to create a safer and more transparent environment for students pursuing additional coaching. The emphasis on counseling services and fair fee structures underscores the commitment to safeguarding the interests and well-being of students.