Increased Funding and Policy Reforms Needed for School Education, Say Experts

by Ranjith Subeditor

As India prepares for the upcoming budget, stakeholders in the school education sector are calling for increased allocations and policy measures to address critical gaps and strengthen foundational learning. Mr. Vishal Goel, Co-Founder of Crimson Schools, shares his perspective on the pressing need for a shift in focus towards school education.

In a recent statement, Mr. Goel highlighted that while education spending in India has seen significant growth, it remains far from meeting the required targets. “Education spending nearly doubled to  Rs 1.21 lakh crore between 2014-15 and 2024-25. However, its share as a percentage of GDP remains at 3.5%, far below the 6% goal set by the Kothari Commission,” he noted. This disparity, according to Mr. Goel, underscores the need for a more equitable distribution of resources across the educational spectrum.

The growth in school education spending has been slower compared to higher education, despite efforts to ramp up investments. “Post-COVID, school education spending saw a modest acceleration to 8.4% CAGR. We are anticipating that this trend must be sustained and expanded, with targeted allocations for improving access to digital learning tools, teacher training, and resources,” said Goel. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that these investments focus on key areas like teacher development and enhancing access to educational technology, which could significantly improve learning outcomes across the country.

Financial aid schemes, such as the PM Vidyalaxmi, have played an important role in improving enrolment ratios and reducing dropout rates. Mr. Goel expressed that further funding for these schemes and simplified compliance processes for schools could enhance their effectiveness. “Financial aid schemes like PM Vidyalaxmi are decisive in enhancing Gross Enrolment Ratios (GER) and reducing dropout rates. Increased funding for these initiatives and simplified compliance processes for schools to access grants and donations could significantly improve educational outcomes,” he said.

Mr. Vishal Goel, Co-Founder of Crimson Schools

Mr. Vishal Goel, Co-Founder of Crimson Schools.

A major concern for schools remains the imposition of 18% GST on affiliation and accreditation services. According to Mr. Goel, this tax adds financial strain on educational institutions and limits their capacity to allocate resources towards core functions. “A review of this policy will help alleviate costs for schools,” he urged, suggesting that removing or reducing the GST could relieve some of the financial pressures faced by schools.

Furthermore, Mr. Goel stressed the importance of fostering skill-based learning and micro-credential courses to meet the demands of Education 4.0. Leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics could play a crucial role in shaping the future of education. “Dedicated funds for skill-based learning and micro-credential courses are needed to materialize Education 4.0 by leveraging technologies like AI and robotics,” he explained. Strengthening public-private partnerships (PPP) to create robust digital infrastructure and bridge the skills gap is another area that requires attention.

While the Centre’s focus on higher education is commendable, Mr. Goel pointed out that it must be complemented by increased investments in school education. Higher education now accounts for 40% of the education budget, with a significant portion directed towards research and innovation. “Spending on research and innovation has surged, with IITs receiving 21.7% of higher education allocations in FY25. Similar attention to schools is necessary to ensure equitable progress across all educational levels,” Mr. Goel concluded.

As the nation moves forward, it is clear that a holistic approach to educational funding, with a focus on school education, is critical to achieving long-term, equitable progress for all learners.

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