The Himachal Pradesh government's unpreparedness in introducing the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum in 117 government schools has led to severe staff shortages, causing many meritorious students to migrate to other institutions. The situation is particularly critical in winter-closing schools, where the academic session began in February and nearly half has elapsed without a finalized policy for adequate staffing and facilities.
Staff Vacancies Across Schools
Several high-enrolment schools in towns like Solan, Kandaghat, and Dharampur have been transitioned from the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBoSE) to CBSE. A separate CBSE sub-cadre was created, requiring teachers to clear a screening test for deputation. However, anticipating transfers, many teachers began moving out as early as December last year, leaving substantial vacancies.
In Solan district, Government Senior Secondary School (GSSS) Kandaghat has seven vacancies, including lecturers in biology, chemistry, and economics, a Trained Graduate Teacher (Arts), a language teacher, and a drawing master. One teacher is on medical leave. GSSS (Boys) Solan has five vacancies in political science, economics, Hindi, commerce, and non-medical stream. GSSS Shoghi in Shimla lost four teachers in political science, sociology, commerce, and arts to nearby non-CBSE schools.
Student Exodus
With crucial months of April, May, and half of June already passed, studies have suffered. Over 20 students have migrated from GSSS Kandaghat to other schools. Parents express frustration, with one stating, "The hurried shift to CBSE has left students without teachers in key subjects for nearly half the academic session."
Government Response
A Cabinet sub-committee, headed by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, was formed on June 6 to formulate a policy framework for recruitment, selection, and teacher postings. Its first meeting is scheduled for June 18. Director of Elementary Education Ashish Kohli acknowledged the challenges, stating that vacant posts in key subjects like mathematics and English are being filled, and schools will soon be adequately equipped. He admitted teething problems are being addressed on priority.
Long-term Concerns
Beyond staffing, questions remain about meeting CBSE requirements, including appointing special educators, counsellors, and psychologists, establishing laboratories, and maintaining teacher-student ratios. Ensuring 50 hours of annual teacher training under NEP 2020 and retaining teachers for reasonable durations are also crucial for continuity and stability.
