Widespread teacher shortages, poor infrastructure in Phek schools— CSU

DIMAPUR — The Chakhesang Students' Union (CSU) has issued a strong call for action after its recent education tour revealed shocking conditions at numerous government schools in the Phek district.

The tour, covering 77 institutions under the District Education Office (DEO) Phek, took place from the first week of April to May 10, according to an update received here on Friday.

DEO Phek is further divided into three Sub-Divisional Education Offices (SDEOs) in Chozuba, Pfutsero, and Phek.

The student body claimed that it had found multiple schools in deplorable condition, with teacher shortages in almost all the schools and inadequate infrastructure.

Stating that it has collected data that provide valuable insight on student enrolment, teachers count, classroom facilities and specific needs, it said that the survey found an alarming lack of instructors, particularly for core subject like Maths, Science, and English, at middle and high schools level.

It has been assessed that at least 20 additional teachers are required immediately to properly staff these schools, it said.

The report also revealed a lack of basic infrastructure in several schools, hampering smooth functioning and conduct of classes. Schools such as Khutsokhuno, Dzulhami, Rukizu, Khuza, Phusachodu etc. require new buildings, classroom, staff rooms, and kitchen to create environment conducive to learning, it said.

The CSU appealed to the concerned authorities to address these issues immediately and conduct rationalisation of teacher postings to fill the existing gaps.

Cautioning that it would resort to “democratic ways and means” to achieve justice and demand accountability if these concerns are ignored, the CSU asserted that it would not remain a silent spectator when the students are denied of quality education.