The Meghalaya Upper Primary School Teachers Association (MUPSTA) is hoping that the state Education Commission will improve the overall welfare of teachers.
Speaking to reporters here today, MUPSTA president Kenneth Shadap said that the upgrade of primary schools under the ad hoc to the deficit system and enhancement of teacher salaries will be solved if the government follows the recommendation of the Education Commission.
“I believe that the state Education Commission, constituted by the state government, will revamp the entire education system and solve all problems, unlike in the past 40-45 years,” he added. “The ad hoc upper primary school came into existence 33 years ago but with no upgradation to the deficit system. I remember when we were paid only Rs 1,500 monthly as teachers and we kept fighting until it was enhanced to Rs 3,000 and then gradually to Rs 6,000 and now Rs 22,000, which is still very low.”
Shadap also said that there are a number of “ghost schools” dotted around the state where teachers draw salaries but where there are very few or even no students. He based this claim on information provided by officials who have conducted field surveys.
Meanwhile, as part of its 30th anniversary, MUPSTA teachers will meet on December 5 at Mukhla in West Jaintia Hills. Education Minister Rakkam Sangma and education adviser Himalaya Shangpliang will attend the get-together.
