High Education Costs Spark Online Debate

A Reddit post has gone viral, revealing that a couple employed by Google is spending Rs 11.2 lakh annually on their child’s school fees. This revelation has ignited discussions about the rising costs of education and the implications of class privilege in urban India. The post, titled “Speechless after seeing 11,20,000 as a school fees for a kid,” was shared by an anonymous user working in a junior role at a small wealth management firm. The user expressed shock upon discovering the financial planning document of the couple, who reportedly earn around Rs 60 lakh per annum combined.

Unprecedented School Fees Raise Eyebrows

The original poster (OP) noted that while school fees ranging from Rs 2-6 lakh are not uncommon, the Rs 11.2 lakh figure was significantly higher than anything they had previously encountered. The OP shared their disbelief, stating, “I mean this is the first time I came across these kind numbers for school fees I had heard, 2-4 lakh but never more than 5,6 lakh.”

Discussion on Elite Education and Class Divide

The Reddit post has sparked a broader discussion about elite education and the class divide in India. One user commented on how money operates like an “old boys’ club,” suggesting that expensive education buys children exposure to affluent circles, which can influence their worldview and opportunities.

Societal Pressures and Lifestyle Choices

Another commenter highlighted societal pressures faced by high-income couples to maintain a certain lifestyle, including enrolling their children in prestigious schools. They argued that success is not guaranteed by attending expensive institutions and emphasized the importance of providing quality education without necessarily incurring exorbitant costs.

Marketing to High-Income Individuals

A third user pointed out the marketing strategies targeting high-income individuals with terms like “Elite,” “Premium,” and “Exclusive.” They noted that rapid income growth can lead to disproportionate spending on education, with parents believing that higher costs equate to better quality.