Education reform gone wrong? Student bodies oppose faulty teacher rationalization and transfers

Two student bodies in Nagaland, the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) and the United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC), have strongly opposed the recent teacher rationalization and transfer process carried out by the Directorate of School Education (DoSE).

While AKM has criticized the lack of planning and fairness in the rationalization policy, USSC has demanded the immediate cancellation of a specific transfer order, alleging it violates established service rules.

AKM: “A Mockery of Rationalization”
The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) expressed deep concern over the recent rationalization notification, stating that while restructuring is necessary in the education sector, the way it has been implemented raises serious questions about its preparedness and fairness.

AKM pointed out the lack of proper planning, arguing that “the recent rationalization process appears to have been carried out without a well-structured plan.” As a result, it has caused “confusion and disruptions in schools, particularly in rural areas where teachers are already scarce.”

Highlighting the unique challenges of rural schools, AKM emphasized that “the teacher-student ratio in rural areas cannot be measured in the same manner as urban schools.” The student body stressed that “a single teacher managing multiple classes simultaneously is impractical and detrimental to the quality of education,” and urged authorities to avoid applying a “one-size-fits-all” approach.

AKM also raised concerns over political interference, asserting that “the rationalization process should be conducted fairly and without political influence.” It insisted that teacher placements should be based on academic needs, not external pressures.

The student body further demanded accountability among teachers who refuse rural postings, stating that “teachers unwilling to serve in rural schools should be given prior warnings”, and if they continue to resist, “voluntary retirement should be enforced to ensure that only committed educators remain in the system.”

Calling for a restructuring approach that prioritizes urban areas first, AKM stated that “schools in urban areas, which have an excess number of teachers, should be prioritized in the rationalization process before affecting rural institutions already facing a shortage.”

Condemning the flawed implementation, AKM declared: “The Department of School Education has turned the rationalization process into a mockery, lacking the seriousness and commitment it deserves.” The student body warned that it “will not stand by as a silent spectator while injustices and discriminatory treatment are meted out to schools in rural areas.”

USSC: “Cancel the Transfer Order Within Seven Days”
Meanwhile, the United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC), representing students in Kiphire and Longkhim-Chare under Tuensang, has taken a stronger stance against a specific transfer order issued under the rationalization process. In a representation addressed to the Principal Director of School Education, the USSC demanded its immediate cancellation within seven days.

“We strongly appeal for its immediate cancellation within seven (7) days from the date of this letter, as it violates the Nagaland School Education Services Rules, 2017, which govern school education employees in the state,” USSC stated.

The student body accused the department of failing to adhere to the service rules, saying that “the transfer order does not comply with the guidelines prescribed in the Nagaland School Education Services Rules, 2017.” It further argued that such “arbitrary transfers disrupt school operations and negatively impact student communities.”

Citing concerns over administrative stability, USSC demanded an immediate review and cancellation, warning that “failure to acknowledge this genuine demand will compel the USSC to take necessary action, which may impact the normal functioning of educational institutions within its jurisdiction.”

Additionally, the student body instructed district education officers (DEO, Sr. SDEO Kiphire, and SDEO Longkhim) not to issue release orders, cautioning that “any officer who fails to acknowledge this appeal and proceeds otherwise will do so at their own risk.”

Expressing hope for urgent intervention, USSC concluded, “We trust your office will address this matter with urgency and uphold fairness in policy implementation.”