The education department has ordered a probe into the report that government school teachers allegedly engage proxy teachers in their respective schools in East Kameng district. The allegation surfaced in the local digital media. This is the first time that such kind of serious allegation has come out in public. However, it is believed that such practice has been going on for the last many years. It is alleged that local tribal teachers engage non-APST persons to teach on their behalf. The salaries are reportedly shared between both.
The education department has taken the right step by directing all the deputy directors of school education (DDSE) to inspect all the schools in their jurisdiction and submit detailed reports by 31 March, 2021. Strong action should be initiated against those teachers who are using proxies. Further, the education department should check the degree qualification, including bachelor in education (BEd) of the teachers currently working in the department. It is alleged that many have acquired fake degrees. A proper inquiry will help to unearth the truth. Over the years, the government schools have been performing poorly in the CBSE examinations. One of the main reasons cited is lack of quality teachers. The education department needs to work to improve these aspects.