- Concerns raised over execution, safety, infra, staff
Yash Khajuria
Leh, Sept 16: A new residential coaching program introduced by the School Education Department of Leh has sparked intense debate, with concerns raised about its execution, infrastructure, and impact on staff and students.
On September 11, the School Education Department launched an ambitious residential coaching initiative aimed at improving the academic performance of Class 10 and 12 students. Authorized under order No.127-LA(SED) of 2024 by Principal Secretary Sanjeev Khirwar, the program was designed in response to disappointing pre-board examination results.
The initiative seeks to provide intensive academic preparation by utilizing existing school facilities and additional temporary hostels. Funded by the Samagra Shiksha program, it covers all costs, including accommodations and educational resources.
However, the program has faced significant backlash from several quarters. Sajjad Kargili, a prominent political figure in Ladakh, has criticized the program’s implementation, particularly regarding student safety and infrastructure. Kargili has highlighted concerns about the adequacy of facilities in remote areas, stressing the need for enhanced safety measures for female students and teachers.
“I urge the administration to address several critical issues,” Kargili said. “Firstly, the safety and security of female students and teachers must be ensured. Secondly, infrastructure in remote areas requires a thorough review to safeguard student well-being. Lastly, teachers working extended hours should receive increased incentives.”
Adding to the controversy, the Leh and Kargil Local Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs), which recommended the initiative, face scrutiny over their support for the program. The program will be staffed by a mix of lecturers, masters, and teachers who will also take on warden duties on a rotation basis. Separate wardens will manage boys and girls to ensure proper supervision, while support staff will help with the program’s daily operations.
Legal expert Mustafa Haji has weighed in with sharp criticism, calling the initiative “absurd and unconstitutional.” Haji, an alumnus of the National Academy of Legal Studies and Research, condemned the program for imposing 24/7 work demands on staff without adequate compensation. He argued that increasing study hours alone won’t resolve the challenges of transitioning from NCERT to CBSE curricula and has called for a reevaluation of the approach.
“The focus should be on a more holistic strategy for student development, rather than just enhancing exam preparation,” Haji asserted. “The current approach is flawed and needs significant adjustments.”
As the program gets underway, the administration faces consistent pressure to address these concerns and ensure that the initiative achieves its objectives without compromising the welfare of students and staff.
