SPDPO appeals for reconsideration of Govt decision to collect school fees
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 18 2021:
State Platform of Disabled People's Organisation (SPDPO), Manipur expressed disbelief at the order pass by Education Department for collection of 50% tuition fees from students and paying 70% of the salary to teachers and staffs during the pandemic.
In a statement issued today, SPDPO questioned whether the decision was taken after discussion with all the stake holders.
SPDPO also added in the statement that during the first wave of the pandemic, all classes were cancelled after admission and nothing happened after that, similarly some relaxations were given during which the admission process of most schools were completed before restrictions were reimposed and all classes has been cancelled, yet again.
SPDPO asked what happened to the funds collected from students as admission fees even when no classes and examinations were conducted.
The decision to collect tuition fees has added more burden to daily wage earners who have been out of work due to the restrictions imposed in light of the second wave of the pandemic.
SPDPO also added that they welcomed the decision of the Government to not collect fees from students who lost their parents due to COVID-19 but also questioned what steps have been taken up by the Government for the welfare of the differently abled individuals during the pandemic.
SPDPO also appealed the Government to reconsider the order in view of the poor er section of the society who are already burdened by lack of work due to the pandemic.