Coaching centres barred from enrolling students below 16 years | 5 major points to know of Govt-issued new rules
In response to a surge in student suicides, safety concerns, and questionable teaching methods, the Union Education Ministry has introduced comprehensive guidelines for coaching centers across the country. The focus is on ensuring the well-being of students, preventing misleading promises, and maintaining a conducive learning environment.
Key Guidelines:
1. Age Restriction: Coaching centers are prohibited from enrolling students below 16 years of age or before completing their secondary school examination.
2. Qualification Standards: Tutors with qualifications below graduation are not allowed to engage in coaching centers.
3. Fee Structure: Clear policies on refunds for students leaving mid-course, transparent fee structures, and no arbitrary fee increases during a course.
4. Infrastructure Requirements: Adequate space per student, adherence to safety codes, provision of first aid, and a well-lit, electrified, and ventilated environment.
5. Weekly Offs: Ensuring coaching classes do not impact regular school attendance, no assessments on days following weekly offs, and customized leaves during important festivals.
6. Timings: Limiting coaching hours to 5 per day and providing information on alternative career options to alleviate stress.
7. No False Promises: Coaching centers are prohibited from making misleading promises or guaranteeing success in competitive exams.
8. Mental Health Focus: Periodic workshops on students’ mental health, awareness campaigns, and involvement of mental health professionals for counseling.
9. Assessment Test Confidentiality: Results of assessment tests should not be made public, used for internal analysis, and students facing performance issues should receive counseling.
10. Penalties: Violations may lead to penalties ranging from Rs 25,000 for the first offense to revocation of registration for subsequent offenses.
Challenges and Concerns:
Despite commendable efforts, critics argue that the guidelines pose challenges, especially in addressing online classes and accommodating students pursuing unconventional study paths. Keshav Agarwal, President of Educators Society, Delhi, emphasizes the need for clarity on these issues and suggests that the government consider the diverse learning preferences and circumstances of students.
As the education landscape evolves, balancing regulation with flexibility will be crucial to fostering a positive learning environment while accommodating the diverse needs of students across the nation.
