Your views on the impact of VAT on prices of school uniforms and books?
The implementation of VAT is good for the development of the nation, as the money can be used for infrastructure development and other kinds of progress work. Keeping in mind the increase in prices though, I will use textbooks given to me by my friend, a grade above me. I will also not buy new sets of uniforms this year as I can easily reuse last year’s uniforms. Any expense in the education machinery is unavoidable. Being a mother of two school-going kids, my plan is to be more vigilant with expenses January onwards. I cannot stop my kids from getting new books, or buying stationery for school projects. However, I can keep the family budget low on entertainment and minimise expenses on junk and processed food. Initially, VAT will impose challenges and distress our individual pockets, but, I believe it is for the UAE’s betterment in the long run. As a student, uniform and books are essential. Families will try to save money with the introduction of VAT. Saving money is not something children are concerned about. But I believe the incoming tax will make kids more aware of their parents’ expense burden. Students need to learn how to conserve their belongings, such as keeping their books in good condition so that it can be passed on to their younger siblings or friends. This will teach children the value of sharing. Ditto for keeping stationery items safe and not losing them.