Despite the presence of highly qualified teachers in schools, both in high and higher secondary levels, an increasing number of students are opting for private coaching, especially during the summer. This trend raises questions about the reasons behind this preference, given the comprehensive infrastructure and subject-specific teachers available in government schools.

The Role of Qualified Teachers in Schools
In every government school, teachers, lecturers, and vocational experts are specifically trained and dedicated to guiding students through their curriculum. With recent government initiatives to introduce vocational subjects in schools, students now have access to a variety of educational streams. Subject teachers are well-prepared to deliver the syllabus and engage students effectively within a stipulated time. Yet, many students choose private tuition over school classes, a choice that undermines the efforts of these dedicated professionals.

Why Students opt for Private Tuition
There are several potential reasons behind students' preference for private coaching

Perceived Inefficiency in Schools

Some students believe that school teachers may not complete the syllabus on time or may not focus on individual student needs. This perception, whether accurate or not, drives students to seek private tuition where they expect more focused attention and timely completion of the syllabus.

Social Influence and Peer Pressure

The trend of attending coaching classes is often influenced by peers. When students see their friends joining private institutes, they may feel compelled to follow suit, believing that these classes will offer better results or more prestige.

Misperceptions about Government Teachers

Despite the qualifications and experience of government teachers, some students may feel that private tutors are more competent. This perception is often based on misconceptions rather than an understanding of the actual quality of teaching provided in schools.

Commercialization of Education

A serious concern is the commercialization of education, where students and parents believe that expensive private coaching guarantees success. This mindset ignores the fact that not all students come from financially strong backgrounds. Many parents struggle to afford private tuition, which adds unnecessary pressure on families.
As a language teacher, I constantly encourage my students to attend classes and adopt new learning techniques. However, convincing students to prioritize school over private coaching is becoming increasingly difficult. It’s important to note that government teachers put in significant effort to make lessons engaging, interactive, and informative. The misconception that government school teachers make classes boring is simply untrue. Like a gardener tending to a beautiful garden, teachers strive to create an environment where students can thrive.

The Impact on Students and Society

This shift towards private tuition creates a divide between students from different economic backgrounds. Not all students can afford the high fees charged by coaching centers, leading to unequal access to quality education. Moreover, this preference for coaching classes fosters a mindset that equates education with monetary investment, rather than valuing the expertise already available in schools.

Conclusion

The beauty of a school, much like a garden, is determined by its students. Teachers are the gardeners, working tirelessly to nurture their students’ growth. If students choose to leave this environment for private coaching, the school loses its vibrancy. It is essential that both students and parents recognize the value of the education provided within the school system and trust the efforts of their teachers. The focus should shift back to schools, where students can receive a comprehensive, quality education without the financial burden of private coaching.
It’s time to recalibrate our collective understanding and trust the system that has been set up for the students’ benefit. After all, the success of a student does not depend on the cost of their education, but on the knowledge they gain and the passion they bring to their studies.

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