School shopping, canteen, and bus fees increased ahead of the new academic term
As the new academic term approaches where millions of students will start classes, increases in stationery, clothing, canteens, and bus fares that do not comply with official tariffs are drawing the reaction of parents.
Ahead of the new academic year where millions of students will start classes on Monday, increases in stationery, clothing, canteen, and bus fees are drawing attention. Despite official ceiling price tariffs, many private schools and service providers demanding high fees are causing a backlash from parents.
Cost of School Shopping
The cost of school shopping, consisting of students' bags, notebooks, pencils, water bottles, and basic stationery needs, ranges between approximately 2,500 and 3,000 liras. This amount, which was at the level of 1,900 to 2,000 liras last year, indicates an increase of approximately 25 to 30 percent.
Private School and Stationery Packages
While the Ministry of National Education bans charging fees under the name of textbooks in private schools, some private schools offer books and educational materials to parents under the name of a stationery package. The prices of these packages start from 50 thousand liras and go up to 200 thousand liras.
Changes in Canteen Prices
According to the new ceiling price tariff in school canteens, the total price of toast and ayran rose to 130 liras. Simit was set at 30 liras, açma and poğaça at 35 liras, half-liter water at 15 liras, tea at 25 liras, and chicken döner at 145 liras.
Bus Fees in Three Major Cities
With the announcement of the hike rates in Ankara, Istanbul, and İzmir, school bus fees in the three major cities have become clear. School bus fees in Istanbul increased by 10 percent, in Ankara by 25.49 percent, and in İzmir by 35 percent compared to last year.
Complaints from Parents
Parents complain about the large differences between official tariffs and the requested fees. Situations such as demanding a bus fee of 140 thousand liras against an official tariff of approximately 48 thousand liras are reported by parents to platforms.
Stationery and Clothing Items
Student stationery expenses increased by 27 to 32 percent compared to last year. While increases occurred in many products from backpacks to lead pencils, the increase in clothing costs reached 15 percent.