Social audit hearing reveals critical issues in Longleng District’s education system

Longleng, 22 September (MTNews): In a significant event for the education system in Longleng District, the first phase of the Social Audit District Level Public Hearing under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme was held on 21 September 2023, revealing crucial findings in at least 17 schools.

Under the guidance of Chairperson Moian Avennoho, Assistant District Coordinator of DMA, Longleng, the Social Audit Public Hearing presented an array of issues demanding prompt attention and action. Resolutions were adopted with a shared commitment to review and effectively address the Social Audit findings.

One notable concern addressed during the hearing involved GHS Bura Namsang and GHS Kangching, where it was discovered that no professional courses in guidance and counseling had been undertaken by any teacher. To rectify this, it was resolved that vocational education would be introduced in these schools in a phased manner in the future, aiming to provide students with holistic guidance and skills.

The absence of the Head Teacher of GPS Bura Namsang (C) since November 2022 raised serious concerns. The District Education Officer (DEO)/Assistant District Education Officer (ADEO) was instructed to take necessary action and submit the Action Taken Report (ATR) to the Director of NSSAA, SAU within one month from the date of the Public Hearing. Similarly, the infrequent visits by the Head Mistress of GHS Kangching prompted directives for the DEO/ADEO to take appropriate measures and submit an ATR within the same timeframe.

Another significant issue revolved around the employment of six proxy teachers in GPS Ngetchongching. The School Management Committee (SMC), Village Council (VC), and ADEO were entrusted with the responsibility of taking necessary action and submitting an ATR to the Director of NSSAA, SAU within one month from the date of the Public Hearing.

Poor school infrastructure, insufficient classrooms, lack of electricity, and inadequate or dilapidated toilet facilities were matters of serious concern. Resolutions were passed to initiate essential infrastructural improvements using the next installment of the NECTAR fund provided by the education department. Authorities were also urged to appeal to higher authorities for additional support and actions.

Additional concerns included the absence of drinking facilities, inadequate school uniforms, the absence of suggestion/grievance boxes, school safety pledges, first aid kits, and emergency contact information in some schools. School authorities reported that actions had been initiated in addressing these issues, and they were instructed to maintain these standards in the future.
Shortages of subject teachers in various schools, notably in subjects such as Hindi, English, and Math, were discussed extensively. The decision was made to appeal to higher authorities for necessary action to ensure that students have access to quality subject-specific education.

Community participation was emphasized as vital for school progress, development, and student enrollment, highlighting the essential role that local communities play in the success of educational programs.

Dr Samuel Akho Konyak, EAC Hq, Longleng, acted as the Independent Observer during the proceedings. He encouraged school representatives who were absent during the Public Hearing to report to the Deputy Commissioner in person and urged SMC/SMDC/village functionaries to effectively fulfill their roles in monitoring rules and regulations.

Earlier, the event commenced with an introduction by Vepo Keyho, State Resource Person from NSSAA, SAU, Nagaland, who explained the concept of Social Audit and District Level Public Hearing. He emphasized the importance of social audit in ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of the scheme. The program concluded with the adoption of Public Hearing resolutions and a vote of thanks by the Chairperson.