The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has expressed  deep concern over the recent notification issued by the Directorate of School Education regarding the transfer and posting of teachers across Nagaland. While acknowledging the need for rationalization in the education sector, the AKM raised concerns over  the manner in which the order has been executed, questioning the preparedness and fairness of the process.

The student body cited the various issues on the notification which lacks proper planning, pose challenges in rural schools, fair conduct without political influence, and the need for prioritizing rationalisation in urban schools.

1. Lack of Proper Planning: The recent rationalization process appears to have been carried out without a well-structured plan, according to the AKM, which has resulted in confusion and disruptions in schools, particularly in rural areas where teachers are already scarce.
2. Challenges in Rural Schools: The AKM also asserted that the teacher-student ratio in rural areas cannot be measured in the same manner as urban schools. “A single teacher managing multiple classes simultaneously is impractical and detrimental to the quality of education. Rationalization should take this reality into account rather than blindly applying a one-size-fits-all approach,” stated the AKM.
3. Political Interference: The AKM strongly advocated that the rationalization process should be conducted fairly and without political influence. Decisions regarding teacher placements should be based on academic needs rather than external pressures, it stated.

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4. Accountability of Teachers Reluctant to Serve in Rural Areas: It also suggested that Teachers who are unwilling to serve in rural schools should be given prior warnings. If they continue to refuse, voluntary retirement should be enforced to ensure that only committed educators remain in the system.
5. Rationalization should begin with Urban Schools: Schools in urban areas, which have an excess number of teachers, should be prioritized in the rationalization process before affecting rural institutions already facing a shortage.

“The Department of School Education has turned the rationalization process into a mockery, lacking the seriousness and commitment it deserves,” claimed the AKM asserting that it will not stand by as a silent spectator while injustices and discriminatory treatment are meted out to schools in rural areas.

“Every child deserves the right to quality education, regardless of their location. We are determined to ensure that this right reaches every corner, leaving no child behind,” added the AKM.