'Education is no more affordable in India': Investor points out LKG fees jump to Rs 3.7 lakh, calls it the 'real inflation'

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, many parents have reported significant increases in school fees, with some seeing hikes of 30-50% while their incomes have remained stagnant, according to a recent LocalCircles survey. In light of this trend, a Bengaluru-based investor Aviral Bhatnagar's recent post has gone viral highlighting that fees for LKG (Lower Kindergarten) in Hyderabad have surged from Rs 2.3 lakh to Rs 3.7 lakh, reflecting a national pattern.

Here's what Aviral Bhatnagar's post on X said:

LKG fees have gone up from 2.3L to 3.7L in Hyderabad, mirroring nationally

While we focus on house prices, the real inflation has happened in education

Inflation adjusted, school fees are up 9x and college fees are up 20x in the last 30 years

Education is no more affordable

¡ª Aviral Bhatnagar (@aviralbhat) August 14, 2024

He reveals a shocking fact: school fees have increased 9-fold and college fees 20-fold over the past 30 years, even after adjusting for inflation. He argues that this dramatic rise has made education in India increasingly unaffordable.

A comment on the post added: "Food, health and education - each of these expenses contribute more than 70% of any average middle class family. The inflation for all these three inflations are easily from 10-20% annually. But the government inflation will still tell you that CPI inflation is 3-4%. Be very conscious of what inflation you wish to consider for your financial freedom journey."

Another joked, saying, "No worries, they will get lkg fees back after 15+ years of studies and joining cognizant," referencing the company's recent controversy over offering new graduates Rs 2.52 LPA while its CEO earned Rs 186 crore last year.

In contrast, someone suggested that "homeschooling is the new normal."

Credit: X

Although popular in countries like the USA, homeschooling remains relatively uncommon and unregulated in India, where it lacks formal recognition and certification.

Homeschooling is an educational approach where children are taught at home rather than attending a traditional public or private school. Parents or tutors usually take on the role of educators, designing and delivering the curriculum.

What do you think could be a potential solution to this issue?

For more information on exams, results and careers, please visit Indiatimes Education.