CSU conducts tour; flags teacher shortage, poor infrastructure

DIMAPUR: Chakhroma Students’ Union (CSU) carried out an extensive educational tour across 52 government schools under its jurisdiction during June, to interact with school authorities, students and stakeholders, and to assess the overall functioning of institutions.
In a press release, CSU informed that the tour aimed to understand ground realities and identify challenges faced by schools. Based on observations and feedback, the Union highlighted pressing issues requiring immediate intervention from the Department of School Education.
Key concerns included acute shortage of subject teachers, inadequate classrooms, deteriorating infrastructure, lack of safe drinking water, and dilapidated sanitation facilities posing health risks to students. CSU noted that shortage of language teachers had led to discontinuation of Hindi and Tenyidie in certain classes.
The Union further pointed out that the SMILE Application remained non‑functional in several schools due to poor connectivity, affecting timely submission of attendance. It also raised serious concern over the Mid‑Day Meal (MDM) scheme, alleging deductions from allocated funds and supply of substandard rice.
Other issues flagged included shortage and improper sizing of school uniforms despite prior submission of measurements, absence of boundary walls raising safety concerns, insufficient Grant‑in‑Aid funds, outdated computer and printing systems, and non‑availability of prescribed textbooks, particularly for Class VIII.
CSU emphasized the need to enhance honorarium of MDM cooks in recognition of their service amidst rising living costs, and regretted lack of consistent follow‑up from the department regarding infrastructural development and approved projects.
Appealing to the Department of School Education to take immediate steps, CSU cautioned that lapses or misuse of funds would be viewed seriously and appropriate action pursued in the interest of students. The Union reaffirmed its commitment to advocate for student welfare and pledged to continue monitoring developments while extending cooperation towards constructive solutions.