Assam: Teacher absenteeism disrupts classes in Sribhumi schools, questions raised over student welfare

Serious lapses in the functioning of government schools in Sribhumi district have raised fresh concerns over the state of the public education system. Despite clear guidelines issued by the Education Department regarding school hours and academic discipline, several schools are reportedly being closed prematurely, allegedly due to the absence of individual teachers.

 

According to local sources, schools are being dismissed well before the stipulated time whenever a teacher remains absent, disrupting the academic schedule and adversely affecting students. Residents allege that such practices have become routine, prompting questions about accountability and administrative oversight.

 

One such instance was reported from Dohalia Adarsha Lower Primary School No. 458 under the Patharkandi education block. On the day in question, the school was reportedly closed early following the absence of a teacher, leaving students without their scheduled classes.

 

Similar irregularities were also observed at Pahartal Primary School No. 1023 under the Ramkrishnanagar education block, where classes were reportedly suspended before the designated closing time. Another incident emerged from Dalgram Primary School No. 162, also under Ramkrishnanagar. Ironically, the school had previously earned an ‘A’ grade during the state’s Gunotsav assessment, raising concerns over the consistency of monitoring and post-evaluation compliance.

 

These incidents collectively point to a troubling pattern across multiple schools under the Sribhumi district education administration. The developments come at a time when the government has repeatedly highlighted its commitment to strengthening the education sector through policy reforms, infrastructure development, and quality assessments.

 

However, the reported lapses suggest that weak enforcement and administrative negligence may be undermining these initiatives at the grassroots level. Educationists and local residents have called for immediate intervention by senior officials to ensure strict adherence to departmental norms and to safeguard the academic interests and future of students.