Schools facing 26% shortage of post graduate teachers in Karnal

As the new academic session began on April 1, government schools in Karnal are facing a significant shortage of Post Graduate Teachers (PGTs). Approximately 26% of sanctioned PGT posts remain vacant, raising concerns about the quality of education. Out of the total 2,144 sanctioned PGT positions in the district, 552 are unfilled. Among the 1,592 filled positions, 1,495 are held by regular teachers, while 97 are occupied by guest teachers.

The shortage is especially prominent in key subjects such as biology, chemistry, and computer science. In biology, 22 out of 84 posts remain vacant, while 39 out of 130 chemistry positions are unfilled. Computer science is the most affected, with 100 out of 118 posts vacant, resulting in inadequate computer classes for students. Other subjects like economics, English, geography, Hindi, history, and physical education also face significant gaps, with many positions unfilled across the district.

Teachers’ associations have raised concerns about the impact of this shortage on student learning outcomes, particularly in core subjects. Ramesh Kumar, the district president of the Haryana School Lecturers Association (HSLA), has urged authorities to take swift action to fill the vacant posts. “We have requested higher authorities to open vacant posts under the transfer policy so that teachers can apply and secure a post in their preferred location,” said Kumar. He emphasised the importance of properly mapping staff and students to ensure accurate placement and timely filling of all vacancies.

Parents share similar concerns, fearing that the shortage of teachers will negatively affect their children's education. "The government must fill these vacancies so that students’ studies are not disrupted," said Ramesh Kumar, a concerned parent.

Sudesh Thukral, the District Education Officer (DEO), assured that the higher authorities had been notified about the vacancies and that steps were being taken to address the issue. "The rationalisation of teachers across the state is ongoing, which will help fill many of the vacant posts. Additionally, the promotion list for Primary Resource Teachers (PRTs) to Trained Graduate Teachers (TGTs) and TGTs to PGTs will soon be issued, helping fill PGT vacancies,” said Thukral.