Govt reduces per child expenditure under RTE for this academic year

CHENNAI: The School Education Department has lowered the reimbursement fees under the Right to Education (RTE) Act for 2022-23 academic year. Due to this move, private schools in the State are likely to face a deeper financial crisis in addition to the existing challenge of getting fees reimbursed from the government.

Under the sub section 2 of section 12 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, it’s mandatory for every private school to reserve 25% seats for students between the ages of 6 and 14.

After admitting them, private schools can avail for fee reimbursement from the State Education Department.

Subsequently, in the circular issued by the school education department to the Director of Matriculation Schools, it was noted that reimbursement fees have been reduced between LKG and Class 8, ranging from Rs 300 to Rs 1,400.

The per child expenditure for RTE students for classes between LKG, and Class 5 has been revised to Rs 12,076.85 (from Rs 12,458.94 till Class 1). For classes 6, 7 and 8, the amount revised is Rs 15,711.31 (from Rs 17,077.34, Rs 17,106.62 and Rs 17,027.35 respectively) for this year.

Speaking about the existing backlog on reimbursement fees from the State government, KR Nandakumar, general secretary, Tamil Nadu Nursery, Primary, Matriculation, Higher secondary and CBSE Schools Association, said, “Many private schools in Tamil Nadu are yet to receive reimbursement fees for last academic year. Additionally, COVID-induced financial crises had added up to the operational difficulty of private schools.”

Speaking to DT Next, an education department official, said, “The amount has likely been revised due to funds shortage and several schemes kick-started this academic year. However, this will not affect students’ enrolment under the RTE.”

Many private schools in Tamil Nadu are yet to receive reimbursement fees for last academic year. Additionally, COVID-induced financial crises had added up to the operational difficulty of private schools