Lack of clarity on school closure leaves govt teachers in limbo

Utter confusion prevailed in government schools due to the alleged lackadaisical approach of both the District Education Officers (DEOs) over the closure of schools amid the ongoing war-like situation. Teachers expressed frustration that, despite orders issued by the Education Minister to close schools until May 10, they were still asked to report to work, with the closure applying only to students.

Daljit Singh Samrala, president of the Democratic Teachers’ Front, alleged that both the DEOs — Secondary and Elementary — created confusion, as most teachers reported to their schools only to learn later about the complete closure. “We tried to contact both thw DEOs, but they did not respond. In such a sensitive situation, neither of them bothered to address the teachers’ concerns. We kept sending texts and calling each other for clarification, but until 10.30 am, teachers remained clueless. I feel taht action should be taken against the DEOs,” said Samrala.

Meanwhile, DEO (Primary) Ravinder Kaur said there was no clarity the previous night regarding whether teachers were required to attend school. However, as soon as the orders arrived in the morning, they were immediately shared in the relevant groups. DEO (Secondary) Dimple Madan did not respond to calls.

College students vacate hostels

College students from Government College for Girls (GCG) and SCD Government College here have vacated the hostel premises because of the ongoing situation. GCG Principal Dr Suman Lata said about 150 students have vacated the hostel. SCD College Principal Dr GS Sandhu, however, said many students were not in the hostel and those who were here had left for their homes.

Meanwhile, about 400 students from around 60 countries are studying in PCTE and they all are staying in Ludhiana.

Dr KNS Kang, Director PCTE, said all the students were here and there was no panic like situation amongst the students.