In Lebanon, a growing crisis in education is forcing parents to seek out used books for their children as a means of coping with skyrocketing school fees. The economic situation has left families struggling to afford even the most basic educational resources, prompting many to turn to modest libraries and bookstores for affordable alternatives. With tuition fees increasing by as much as 120% this year, the burden on parents has reached an unsustainable level, leading to a surge in demand for second-hand materials.
The head of the Parents’ Committees Union, Lama Al-Tawil, has voiced concerns over the legality of these fee increases, which are being imposed by private schools despite government objections. As families feel the pinch of rising costs, many are considering a shift to public schools, which themselves are facing severe funding shortages. The Minister of Education's recent decision to set registration fees for public schools has further complicated the situation, as families grapple with a lack of resources and support from the government.
The challenges facing Lebanon's education system reflect a broader economic crisis, with many parents feeling helpless in the face of rising costs and dwindling resources. The lack of transparency in school budgets and the refusal of some institutions to disclose teacher salaries only add to the frustrations of families trying to navigate this difficult landscape. As the new school year approaches, the urgent need for solutions becomes increasingly apparent.
