Pune: A policy change allowing students who fail Classes 5 and 8 to remain in the same grade has led to confusion about the reimbursement of tuition fees for students enrolled under the Right to Education (RTE) quota.

Previously, students could not be detained in the same class until Class 8 under the RTE Act. However, in the academic year 2023–24, the state’s school education department amended the policy, enabling schools to retain students who fail in Classes 5 and 8.

The new policy also mandates that students be given a re-examination within a month of their results. If they fail again, they cannot be expelled and must be retained in the same class. The government published this decision in its official gazette on May 29, 2023. The central government recently implemented a similar decision.

The Fee Dilemma

Under the RTE Act, the government reimburses tuition fees for students from economically weaker sections studying in private schools. However, ambiguity surrounds whether the fees for RTE students retained in Classes 5 and 8 will be reimbursed by the government or paid by the students themselves.

To resolve this, the Directorate of Primary Education sought clarification from the state government months ago. However, progress on the matter has been delayed due to the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha election codes of conduct.

Statewide Data Unavailable

Education department officials have confirmed that statewide data on the number of students failing even after re-examinations in Classes 5 and 8 is currently unavailable.

Follow-up Assured

Speaking with mediapersons, Sharad Gosavi, Director of Primary Education, assured that the department is pursuing the matter and will continue to follow up with the state government to provide clarity on fee reimbursement for retained students under the RTE quota.