Assam: New guidelines for coaching centers; No coaching below class X

ASSAM: Responding to growing concerns over student suicides, fire incidents and inappropriate behavior at training centres, the Department of Human Resources has introduced stringent regulations to ensure the welfare of students. The guidelines covers a variety of approaches to coaching center operations to promote transparency, accountability and mental health.

Under the new rules, enrolling students under 16 into training centers is explicitly prohibited. In addition, they are prohibited from making misleading promises, such as promises of status or better marks. Teachers with less than graduate qualifications are also barred from teaching in these institutions.

The main focus of the guidelines is the psychological well-being of students, particularly how to address the alarmingly high rate of student suicides in Kota, Rajasthan. The bill proposes measures such as weekly vacations, adequately spaced classes and limited class hours to ease the pressure on students. To ensure proper monitoring, the guidelines prescribe fines up to Rs 1 lakh or closure of training centers found to be charging exorbitant fees causing stress and in circumstances where is hard in the name of student suicides.

State governments play an important role in managing training centres, ensuring eligibility, assuming responsibility in providing +2 level education and ensuring satisfactory activities.

Crucially, coaching centers are now mandated to have a counseling system in place during registration, emphasizing the importance of mental health support for students. Additionally, these coaching centers are required to maintain updated websites providing detailed information on tutor qualifications, courses offered, duration, hostel facilities, and fees.

The overarching goal of these regulations is to instill transparency, accountability, and prioritize student well-being within the coaching industry. By addressing concerns related to suicides, fire incidents, and unethical practices, the Ministry of Human Resource aims to create an environment conducive to learning and personal development for students across the country.

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