New school year brings textbook shortages and health warnings

As the new school year begins, parents are facing high demand and shortages of certain textbooks. In Fushë Kosovë, some parents reported difficulties finding specific titles, such as ‘Abetarja’. A bookstore manager noted that the rush was partly due to a delay in the Ministry of Education determining final prices. To address concerns, publishing houses have decided to compensate parents who purchased books at higher prices before the official price announcement, with compensations scheduled to take place after September 15.

In addition to supply issues, medical experts are warning about the health risks associated with heavy school bags. Doctors advise that bags containing books, electronics, and other supplies can cause physical strain. To prevent injury, experts suggest that a backpack should not exceed 10–15% of a child's body weight. Recommendations for reducing strain include using bags with two wide, adjustable straps that keep the pack close to the body and ending just above the waist.