Acute staff shortage hits education at Laripora Pahalgam High School
Locals demand appointment of more teachers to ensure better future for students
Anantnag: The Government High School in Laripora, Pahalgam in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district is grappling with an acute shortage of staff, leaving over 220 students in 11 classes at the mercy of just eight teachers, including the headmaster and one who is managing the clerical job.
Parents and residents expressed strong resentment over what they termed as the government’s neglect of the area’s educational needs.
They said that whenever the matter is raised, teachers from nearby schools are deputed temporarily, but they are soon directed to return to their original postings, leaving the students in crisis again.
“This is not a solution. Our children suffer the most when teachers are shifted back after just a few weeks. The academic calendar gets disturbed,” said Ghulam Rasool, a parent from Laripora.
Another resident, Abdul Ahad, pointed out that the area is already struggling with high illiteracy rates.
“If the government continues to ignore our pleas, the situation will worsen. We need permanent staff, not temporary adjustments,” he said.
Locals said that despite repeated representations, the education department has failed to provide adequate infrastructure and manpower to the school.
“There are 220 students in this institution, yet the teacher-student ratio is far from acceptable. How can just six teachers manage all subjects across 11 classes?” asked a local social activist.
The residents have urged higher authorities to intervene immediately and ensure that more teachers are sanctioned for the school to safeguard the educational prospects of the children.
“Education is the foundation of our future. We cannot allow our children to be deprived of their basic right due to administrative apathy,” the locals said.
