Parents decry absence of teachers at govt schools

Parents of students in Nandya Tribal Tanda Government Primary School under Chaudhariguda mandal in Rangareddy District have voiced serious concerns over the lack of commitment from teachers and the deteriorating quality of education. The school, which caters to students from class 1 to 5, has reportedly become a symbol of neglect, with students and their parents suffering the consequences.
Parents allege that the school’s only teacher frequently arrives late, leaves within three hours, or sometimes does not show up at all. They further claimed that when the teacher is absent, two local women, have been entrusted with teaching the children, receiving Rs 5,000 each as compensation from the teacher.
A recent visit by local journalists revealed a disturbing scenario: only 10 students were present, and the appointed teacher was absent. The teacher, when contacted, cited health issues as the reason for her absence. However, locals argue that no alternative teacher was assigned during her absence, leaving students without proper guidance and supervision.
The situation in Nandya Tribal Tanda is not an isolated incident. Similar reports have emerged from other parts of Rangareddy district, including Shankarpalli, Shamshabad, Chevella, Kondurg, and surrounding areas. Parents in these regions are facing the same challenges, with teachers failing to adhere to proper schedules and officials neglecting their supervisory responsibilities.
The Telangana government has been investing crores of rupees to improve education in rural areas, yet the lack of accountability on the part of teachers and officials undermines these efforts. Parents and locals have criticised the Mandal Education Officer (MEO) and complex principals for failing to address the issue. Despite knowing the ground realities, they have allegedly turned a blind eye to the negligence, allowing teachers to flout the Right to Education Act and other regulations.
The parents also raised concerns about the mid-day meal program, questioning its management and the lack of supervision. In the absence of teachers, they worry about the safety and nutrition of their children, especially in light of recent incidents of food poisoning reported in schools and hostels across the state.
The situation in Nandya Tribal Tanda and other villages in Rangareddy district highlights a broader issue plaguing rural schools. While many dedicated teachers fulfill their responsibilities with diligence, the negligence of a few teachers tarnishes the reputation of the education system. Parents demand immediate intervention from the government to ensure regular teacher attendance, proper monitoring by officials, and effective use of allocated funds.
Without accountability, the future of children in remote villages remains uncertain, and the government’s efforts to provide quality education risk becoming futile.