There are thousands of vernacular medium government schools in Assam to impart education at primary, high and higher Secondary levels. Some of these schools are located in villages and the rest in towns .If we observe ,it is seen that enrolment of students in these schools are decreasing at an alarming rate and if this continues within a year or two ,many of the schools will be closed.
In towns ,children are sent to private schools .Only a few guardians who are unable to bear the expenses send their children to government schools .Even in villages, now a days people prefer private schools. Only a few send their children to government schools.
There are many reasons behind this matter. The first thing is -private schools collect huge amount of fees from parents and so they can spend more money in infrastructural facilities but the government provide free education, books, uniform and free mid day meal (in Primary section). Besides these there is provision of funds for different heads like infrastructure, mid day meal, payment of cooks etc. As the number of government school is more, the money sanctioned for each school is limited.
The private schools always try to compete with others in all aspects. That attracts the people.
To improve the situation of vernacular medium schools ,the teachers must work harder. They should develop belongingness to the school they serve. Recently we have seen a few vernacular medium government schools on the television where people were waiting in queue for forms from the previous night. If other schools follow them, definitely they will be able to replace the private schools.
Instead of GUNUTSOV there should be provision of regular surprise inspections atleast thrice in an academic session. Retired Principals. Headmasters and teachers who are willing can be given responsibility of these inspections.
Most of the students in government schools come from economically backward families hence their parents are not highly educated. They are totally indifferent towards the education of their children. Therefore we have to motivate them first. There should be parent-teacher meeting at regular interval to discuss about the performance of their wards. This will make them responsible guardians.
The VMC and the local people should also keep vigil on the activities of the schools in their area. When needed they should cooperate with the members of the vidyalaya family.
If we all join hands , it is sure that these schools will be able to regain their glory.
(The article is solely the opinion of the author. The views expressed here are solely personal and not in any way connected to any organisation or any political party ).
Writer worked as a PRT in KV for 30 years since 1991 to March 2021. Can edit DESSERTATION,THESIS ,WRITE UP both in ASSAMESE & ENGLISH.