Thread by @TheKenWeb

India's extended lockdown has brought a major section of schools to the brink of closure—nearly 270,000 affordable private schools (APSs) that cater to 30-40% of Indian students.

That's approximately 79 million students. #Thread

Structurally, affordable private schools lie at the intersection of need and want.

They bridge the gap between elite private schools and low-quality government schools, charging between Rs 500-3,000 ($6.6-39.7) a month.

Without regular cash flow, schools are struggling to stay afloat. And there's no impending bailout.

The government has also tightened the screws on private schools by banning fee hikes for the next few months.

Affordable private schools have also suffered from the prevalent attitude towards for-profit education institutions.

Governments and parents both paint all private schools with the same brushstroke.

APSs are fighting to stay relevant in these times. A host of education companies and non-profits have offered online classes and content free of cost to these schools.

But unlike those from elite private schools, APS students often have limited access to devices and data.

APSs are trying to retain students through WhatsApp classes and phone calls. But without any fees coming in, this is getting tougher.

Many students will turn to government schools, which have rolled out extensive online classes.

APSs are in bad shape. ICYMI, @OBanerji chronicles their plight (and what this means for India's education system) in today's story.

It's a free and important story. Do share it widely:

the-ken.com/story/covid-af…