PRIVATE TUITION: BOON OR BANE?

Private tuition has become increasingly popular in recent years. As the education system becomes more competitive, parents are turning to private tutors to help their children excel academically.
One reason for this trend is the desire for personalised attention. In a classroom setting, teachers often have to divide their attention among many students, making it difficult to address each child's individual needs. Private tutors, on the other hand, can focus solely on the student, tailoring their lessons to suit their learning style and pace.
Additionally, private tuition offers a level of flexibility that is not always possible in a traditional school setting. Students can schedule sessions at a time that is convenient for them, allowing them to balance their academic commitments with other activities.
Another factor driving the popularity of private tuition is the desire for academic success. In today's competitive world, parents want to give their children every advantage possible. Private tuition can help students improve their grades, prepare for exams, and develop study skills that will serve them well in the future.
While private tuition can be expensive, many parents see it as a worthwhile investment in their child's future. The benefits of personalised attention, flexibility and academic success make private tuition an appealing option for many families.
For some parents, tutoring is a temporary tool before exams. For others, it has become a year-round dependency driven by fear, competition, and the pressure to secure academic success at any cost.
“Sometimes I feel guilty if my children are not enrolled in private tutoring,” says Rahma Jaber , a working mother of four. “Even if they are doing well, everyone around us has tutors. It creates pressure on parents more than students.”
Rashid al Qutati, a father, believes tutoring has become essential because of time limitations within recent family life. “Both parents work, children are distracted by technology, and school lessons move quickly. The tutor helps us keep things under control,” he explains.
However, there are different stories from many students. A Grade 10 student, Zainab al Ajmi , described her daily routine as “a non-stop cycle between school and extra lessons.” She added, “I rarely have time to rest or enjoy anything outside studying. Sometimes it feels like my entire childhood is scheduled.”
Educational specialists warn that excessive dependence on tutoring may weaken students’ self-learning abilities and increase emotional exhaustion. Some educators believe students are gradually becoming more dependent on memorisation and ready- made answers rather than critical thinking and independent problem-solving.
Zuwina al Saidi commented,” I have noticed my nephew is really dependent on the private classes. He never studies alone and just waits for the timing of the tutoring. “ She added, “My sister is travelling most of the time and her big concern is to ensure is that her sons are going to the private lessons. What I noticed that her sons refuse to study alone.
Rajwa Salim , parent of 3 children , admitted, “Private lessons have become like another monthly bill. Sometimes we sacrifice family activities just to afford extra classes.” Despite the criticism, tutoring continues to expand because it answers a real demand.