Maharashtra Schools Association Proposes Alternative for Census Duty
The Maharashtra English School Trustees Association (MESTA) has formally appealed to the state government to reconsider its approach to staffing the upcoming Census. The association has urged authorities to hire unemployed graduates on a contractual basis for Census duty, rather than assigning the task to school teachers. This proposal aims to prevent significant disruption to the academic calendar and ensure that educational activities proceed without interruption.
Teachers Already Overburdened with Academic Responsibilities
MESTA officials have highlighted that teachers are currently grappling with a heavy workload, which includes conducting examinations, managing evaluation duties, and overseeing the commencement of the new academic session. Adding Census responsibilities to their plate is deemed impractical and unsustainable. The association has also expressed serious concerns over the government's warning of filing First Information Reports (FIRs) against teachers who fail to comply with Census duty orders, arguing that such measures create unnecessary pressure on educators.
Financial Support Proposal for Unemployed Graduates
Sanjay Tayde-Patil, President of MESTA, emphasized that the government could effectively engage unemployed graduates for the Census exercise. He indicated that the association is prepared to mobilize financial support to fund an honorarium for these individuals. "Teachers are already occupied with critical academic responsibilities. Assigning them Census work at this stage is not feasible. If needed, we will request teachers from unaided schools to contribute towards an honorarium pool for those engaged in Census duty," Tayde-Patil stated.
According to MESTA office-bearers, even modest contributions from teachers could generate a substantial fund. "If each teacher contributes Rs. 100, the pool could reach around Rs. 10 crore, and potentially exceed Rs. 50 crore if higher contributions are made," Tayde-Patil explained. He added that since the Census is conducted only once every decade, such financial support would not impose a recurring burden on the teaching community.
School Principals Voice Concerns Over Academic Impact
School principals across Maharashtra find themselves in a difficult position, caught between adhering to government directives and maintaining academic integrity. Releasing teachers for Census duty would inevitably affect schoolwork, while non-compliance could lead to legal repercussions. "Schools are currently handling overlapping responsibilities, including internal examinations, board evaluation, and the start of new classes, leaving little room to spare staff," one principal remarked.
Another principal noted that schools are not opposed to participating in Census work but stressed that the timing is particularly problematic. "Balancing administrative directives with academic commitments has become increasingly challenging. Diverting teachers at this stage directly impacts students and disrupts tightly scheduled timelines," the principal added, underscoring the need for a more practical solution.
Call for Government Action and Collaborative Solutions
The association's proposal underscores a broader call for the government to explore alternative staffing solutions that do not compromise educational outcomes. By leveraging the pool of unemployed graduates, the state can fulfill its Census obligations while safeguarding the academic environment. MESTA's willingness to assist with funding demonstrates a collaborative approach to addressing this issue, aiming to ensure that both national data collection and student learning proceed smoothly.
