Excuse to fleece

Apropos of the news "PABSON rules out plans to hike monthly fee" (THT, April 16), it is reassuring to learn that private schools are not going to raise the fees as was once stated. The guardians are not in a position to afford exorbitant charges. That the schools have no plans to increase their fees, thus, comes as a relief. However, it is stated that some of the schools are virtually on the verge of closure, and these schools would be charging extra. This has the guardians worried as to whether this is a guise to hike the monthly fees in many schools. Most of the private schools claim that they are not making enough money to pay their teachers and for the running of the schools. This looks just like an excuse to fleece more money from the guardians.

The authorities should see to it that the schools do not resort to such measures. Besides how can we tell which schools are doings well and which ones are incurring losses.

Furthermore, the guardians are worried by the private schools unilateral decision to hike the monthly fees by as much as 25 per cent. However, it is now confusing if such a decision was actually made. Could the concerned notify the concerned guardians and public at the earliest? Here it must be stated that nobody should be able to play with the future of children. As such, the raising of the fees under any pretext which is not genuine should be condemned by all.

Ramesh Thapa, Pokhara

Widespread

Despite repeated assurances by the authorities to control corruption, this is still widespread. One can see many incidents of corruption, particularly in government offices. The trouble is that it is common knowledge that such misdeeds are taking place, but still very little is being done to nab those indulging in corrupt practices.

If the authorities were really determined, then they could actually reduce the incidence of corruption, if not eliminate it. So far, we find only half hearted efforts being made in this direction.

The provision to have government officials to disclose their property has proved to be ineffective. Furthermore, we find many 'powerful' people who have not abided by this provision. Therefore, every one who is required to do so must provide their property details.

Also the provision to disclose large transaction could help do away with corruption in a big scale. This should be implemented in a strict manner, and those not following this requirement should be exposed and punished.

Arun Joshi, via e-mail

Donations

These days we find a big rush of guardians wanting to enroll their wards in some reputed schools. These schools usually have entrance exams. These exams are supposed to identify students who deserve to be enrolled in such schools. However, we find that these exams are only put on for show. It is very difficult for guardians without contacts to enroll their wards in these schools.

But we find some schools enrolling students if their guardians give donations. Since the majority of guardians cannot afford to give donations, it is the lucky few who can get their wards admitted. Here the criteria for admission is money and not the ability of the students. This is unfair.

Dinesh Malakar, Jamal

Not clear

I have been facing much problems with my mobile phone. On many occasions I am unable to get connections to make important calls. However, when I use the telephones I do not encounter such a problem in getting my calls connected. I wonder what is wrong with the mobile phones.

Furthermore, the reception is not clear and I wonder if something is wrong with my mobile set or is it a technical problem. NTC should look into this and upgrade its services.

Rupesh Gurung, via e-mail

Accidents

These days we hear about serious traffic accidents, particularly on the highways, without a single day passing. Most of the accidents are attributed to over speeding and reckless driving as well as vehicles carrying passengers above their capacity. Even with the realization of the causes of accidents I wonder why little is being done about them. It is with trepidation that people venture to go on journeys.

Ritu Khanal, via e-mail