In recent years, the shortage of places in state-run preschool institutions has forced parents to turn to the private sector. However, the pricing policies of private kindergartens have raised many questions: why does one preschool in a particular area charge 300 manats per month for its services, while another charges up to 8,000 manats? Experts are now raising the issue of the need for state regulation.
Samira Gasimova, an educator at one of the private preschools, explains that the pricing is based on a combination of factors.
“Price is not determined solely by the location or size of the institution. What matters most is the quality and quantity of services offered. Pricing is influenced by the quality of food, the qualifications of the teaching staff, the individualized approach to each child, and the level of safety. Some kindergartens only offer the basic package: education, care, and meals. Others include additional activities such as sessions with a psychologist, speech therapist, foreign language lessons, music and dance clubs, theater performances, excursions, and various developmental activities,” she explains.
According to S. Gasimova, this year has seen a noticeable price increase, due to the rising cost of food and the increase in salaries for teaching staff.
Education expert Sabuhi Abdullaev notes that the cost of private kindergarten services has increased by 25% compared to the previous year.
“Among the objective factors driving price increases are the rising cost of food, ensuring modern safety standards, and professional training and certification of staff. However, we cannot rule out the possibility of artificial price inflation. The installation of video surveillance systems, constant communication with parents, and diverse menus all impact the price. Unfortunately, we often see a mismatch between high prices and the actual quality of services. The minimum price of 300 manats has become the standard for most private kindergartens. Additional individual sessions can increase the monthly fee by another 300-500 manats,” he explains.
Meanwhile, Jaykhun Mammadov, a member of the Science and Education Committee of the Milli Majlis, expressed concern over the situation.
“In some cases, astronomical amounts are being discussed. Currently, pricing is entirely dependent on the institution’s owner. Some charge 300 manats, others charge 500, but there is no significant difference in the quality of services. There is no regulation in this area. I believe that pricing regulations should be introduced for both private kindergartens and non-governmental schools,” he stated.
The deputy emphasizes the need for clear price ranges for preschool institutions and considers it unacceptable for parents to pay significantly different amounts for similar services.
