In a significant boost to the state's education sector, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann personally handed over appointment letters to 606 newly recruited candidates of the education department on Saturday. The event, held in Chandigarh, underscored the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's continued focus on job creation and educational reform.
Merit-Based Recruitment Drive Crosses 61,000 Mark
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Mann made a bold claim about his administration's track record. He stated that since assuming office in April 2022, the AAP government has provided a total of 61,281 government jobs through a transparent recruitment drive. He expressed immense pride in the process, asserting that every single appointment was made purely on merit. "It is a matter of pride that every single appointment was made purely on merit and transparency, and not even one was challenged in court," Mann declared.
The Chief Minister used the occasion to draw a sharp contrast with previous administrations. He accused past governments of failing to respect merit and competence, alleging they distributed coveted government positions among "their sons, nephews, and favourites." In contrast, Mann emphasized that his government has ensured that deserving young people from every village, town, and city in Punjab have received jobs based solely on their qualifications and performance.
A Special Cadre for Inclusive Education
The latest batch of appointments highlights a specific push for inclusive education. Of the 606 new recruits, a substantial number—385 individuals—were appointed as special educator teachers. Mann explained that a separate cadre has been created specifically for this role to cater to children with special needs studying in government schools across Punjab.
"Around 48,000 children with special needs are currently enrolled in govt schools. To ensure quality education for them, we appointed 385 teachers under this special cadre," the Chief Minister said. He expressed confidence that these dedicated appointments would significantly help such children develop essential skills at both primary and secondary education levels, providing them with a stronger foundation for the future.
Composition of the New Appointments
The distribution of the 606 appointment letters was as follows:
- 385 Special Educator Teachers
- 157 Primary Teachers
- 8 Principals
- 56 Employees recruited on compassionate grounds
A Duty Beyond Teaching: Shaping Futures
While congratulating the new appointees, especially the special educator teachers, Chief Minister Mann outlined a responsibility that extends far beyond conventional teaching. He imbued their role with a profound sense of purpose, connecting it to broader social service.
"Your duty is not only to educate these children but also to serve humanity. Your role in shaping their future will be even greater than that of their parents," Mann told the newly appointed special educators. This statement framed the teaching profession as a pivotal force in nurturing and empowering the next generation, particularly for children who require additional support and specialized attention.
The event marks another milestone for the Bhagwant Mann-led government as it approaches the completion of around four years in office. By spotlighting job creation in the social sector, particularly education, the administration reinforces its core messaging of transparent governance and investment in human capital for Punjab's long-term development.
