Parents Begin Early Preparations for School Reopening Amid Book Shortages.
Parents and guardians have commenced early preparations ahead of school reopening scheduled for early next year.
However, some bookshops are grappling with a shortage of books due to delayed supplies from publishers.
This development has added to parents’ frustrations, as they also contend with rising prices for school essentials.
Back-to-School Rush Kicks Off During Festive Season
With the festive season still ongoing, the back-to-school rush is already in full swing.
Book sellers have expressed concerns over the delayed supply of textbooks from publishers, citing a significant impact on their businesses.
Additionally, low demand from parents and learners has compounded the challenges faced by bookshop owners in the midst of tough economic conditions.
One shopkeeper noted that publishers have yet to release all required books but expressed optimism that the situation will stabilize by the end of the month.
“We don’t have many books now because publishers haven’t delivered, but we hope to have all supplies soon,” said the retailer.
Rising Costs Strain Parents’ Budgets
Parents, eager to avoid the last-minute rush, are facing financial strain due to increased costs of school supplies.
Many have been forced to make sacrifices during the holiday season to afford necessary items for their children’s education.
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“There’s a big difference compared to last year. Prices are much higher,” one parent remarked, adding that they had to cut costs in other areas to prioritize school purchases.
Despite the challenges, parents are determined to secure the required items, given the urgency of the upcoming school term.
Teachers and Uniform Distributors Join Preparations
Teachers have also joined in the preparations, visiting bookshops to confirm prices and availability of recommended textbooks.
They are particularly focused on ensuring the seamless adoption of changes in the curriculum, such as the integration of health education into other subjects.
One teacher explained that they were checking whether updated textbooks reflect changes in content.
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Uniform distributors, on the other hand, have lamented a slowdown in business compared to previous years. Many have noted a decline in profit margins, attributing it to the current economic environment.
Hopes for Improvement Before Schools Reopen
Despite the ongoing challenges, many remain hopeful that the situation will improve before schools reopen.
Bookshop owners, parents, and other stakeholders anticipate a resolution to the supply shortages and pricing issues in the coming days, ensuring students are well-prepared for the new academic year.
Parents Begin Early Preparations for School Reopening Amid Book Shortages.
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