Voicing concerns about the performance of government teachers in the state, Manipur Education Minister Th Basantakumar revealed that approximately 70 to 80 per cent of government teachers in Manipur are perceived to be working merely for their salaries, without a genuine commitment to educating students.
He was delivering the chief guest speech during a media sensitisation programme on school educations held in connection with the year-long golden jubilee celebration of AMWJU at the Manipur Press Club in Imphal.
It was organised by the AMWJU under the aegis of the Education (S) Department.
The minister urged the public to consider the implications of having only 20 per cent of teachers actively engaged in educational activities and emphasised the need for substantial reforms.
To address these concerns, Basantakumar outlined several strategic measures planned by the Education Department.
One significant reform proposed is the introduction of a competitive recruitment process for new teachers, he said, adding this process will be managed by a competitive board and will include psychological evaluations during interviews to ensure that candidates possess the qualities of effective educators.
Addressing the issue of teacher transfers and postings, which have been subject to pressure from various groups including MLAs, Basantakumar expressed a commitment to eliminating such influences.
Stressing the importance of making decisions based on merit and institutional needs rather than external pressures, the minister announced plans to recruit teachers in clusters and assign them to institutions based on merit and personal preferences, thereby aiming to create a more stable and dedicated teaching workforce.
In his speech, the minister also touched on the broader issue of unemployment among educated youth in Manipur.
He noted that white-collar job opportunities in the state are limited to around 1 lakh positions.
To tackle this challenge, Basantakumar emphasised the need for the Education Department to collaborate with skill development and vocational training programs.
This partnership aims to enhance job prospects for young people and better align their skills with market demands, he added.
Basantakumar further assured that the department is dedicated to improving the education sector and he as the concern minister is prepared to accept responsibility for any shortcomings.
He expressed confidence in the department's officials, stating that credit for any advancements in the education sector should be attributed to their efforts.
