Let’s not burden teachers more than they already are

Representation Pic

As the deadline for data submission looms, Maharashtra lags behind in the nationwide illiteracy census. Amidst the heavy workload of numerous non-academic responsibilities, such as Aadhaar registration, mid-day meal audits, and out-of-school student surveys, the illiteracy census under the ambitious New India Literacy Programme (NILP) by the Central government faces substantial resistance from 32 teachers' unions within the state.

Teachers argue that these non-academic tasks encroach upon their primary teaching duties. Nonetheless, the education department insists on their completion, citing a government mandate and a national duty that compels teachers to fulfil them.

Teachers and their spokespersons questioned why this should be on them, stating that their burden was already onerous. They also cited that there was a shortage of teachers so they have to make up for the shortfall. The other side stated that the questionnaire is fairly straightforward and teachers should be able to garner this information quickly, without too much strain.

Teachers are specialists whose sole focus needs to be the classroom and students rather than being burdened with non-academic responsibilities like election duties or census activities. The Right to Education (RTE) Act clearly states that teachers should not be involved in non-academic duties.

Teaching means not only entering classrooms, but also preparing for lectures, doing research and making questionnaires. We should remember invigilation and correction of papers too, after exams. All these are also teachers responsibilities.

Maybe, the state can train a special batch or task force dedicated to such duties. They will then have a ready pool of people, when the need arises.