Pune: The Global Talent International School in Chikhali has come under scrutiny after the municipal education department issued a ‘show cause’ notice over its non-registration under the Right to Education (RTE) Act.

The Act mandates private English-medium schools to register with the state government through the RTE portal. This registration ensures that schools admit students from economically weaker sections and receive reimbursement for their tuition fees from the government.

Despite this obligation, several schools, including Global Talent International School, have refused to register, citing delays in government reimbursement as a major reason. The issue has raised concerns about compliance and financial accountability within the education sector.

Violations of RTE Norms

The RTE Act stipulates free education for children aged 0-14 years and reserves 25% of seats in private English-medium schools for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. In Pimpri-Chinchwad alone, there are 4,225 seats across 169 schools under this quota. However, widespread violations have been reported, with schools disregarding the notices issued for non-compliance.

Schools Cite Financial Challenges

Administrators of private schools argue that delays in government reimbursements have caused severe financial strains. Dr. Swapnali Dhoka, Managing Trustee of Global Talent International School, highlighted the ongoing challenges, stating, “We have not received even a single rupee as reimbursement under the RTE scheme for the past seven years. Despite submitting all necessary details, the funds have not been released. This has forced us to delay our registration under the RTE portal, although the education department continues to allocate RTE students to our school.”

Government's Response

The education department has taken a firm stance on the issue. “RTE registration is a mandatory requirement for all schools. Global Talent International School has refused to comply, and two ‘show cause’ notices have already been issued to them. If they fail to register, further legal and administrative action will be initiated,” said Sangeeta Bangar, Administrative Officer of the municipal education department.