Arunachal Pradesh Shuts Down 400 Government Schools with Zero Attendance

New Delhi: According to a report published in East Mojo, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced the closure of 400 government schools with zero attendance. At a Platinum Jubilee celebration event of Government Secondary School, Balek,  which was declared a ‘Heritage School’, Khandu unveiled his vision for education, emphasising “quality over quantity.”

Khandu attributed the lack of adequate infrastructure and manpower in numerous schools to what he called the "politics of appeasement." He stressed his administration's commitment to prioritising the quality of educational initiatives and projects over political considerations.

"We have taken education very seriously. In fact, we have shut down about 400 government schools with zero attendance," Khandu declared, adding, "The process is still ongoing. We don't need more schools; we need quality education from the existing schools, for which the government is extending all support."

The Chief Minister further noted that Arunachal Pradesh was more focused on establishing new schools without paying sufficient attention to the quality of education imparted. In response to this, Khandu unveiled an ambitious plan to declare all government schools established before Independence as 'Heritage Schools.' These schools will receive special attention for infrastructure development, including the creation of a museum within their premises.

"This is one of the best requests that I have come across. Not only this school but all pre-Independence government schools in the state will be declared Heritage Schools with a museum showcasing their rich history," Khandu stated in response to a request by the Platinum Jubilee celebration organisers.

Government Secondary School, Balek, established as a Lower Primary school in 1946, is celebrating its Platinum Jubilee. Khandu praised the school for its 75-year journey, considering that Arunachal Pradesh became a full-fledged state only in 1987, decades after the school's inception.

Acknowledging the contributions of the school's alumni, Khandu paid tribute to those who have passed away and congratulated those who have served in various capacities and those who have retired.

Khandu also disclosed that he had directed the Education department to map all government-run schools in the state, enabling the government to monitor each school effectively. He reiterated the importance of School Management Committees (SMCs) in the proper functioning and development of schools. He encouraged SMC members to regularly visit schools, interact with teachers, students, and parents, and report any requirements to the concerned authorities.

During the Platinum Jubilee celebration, the Chief Minister urged the school's alumni, who are well-educated and knowledgeable, to discuss ways to improve the quality of education in government schools and convey their suggestions to the government.