In a rare and symbolic protest, students of Kakharuni U.G. U.P. School under Pattamundai block in Odisha’s Kendrapara district on Wednesday returned their school uniforms and boycotted classes, demanding the appointment of more teachers in their school. The agitating students neither entered their classrooms nor took their mid-day meal, expressing their dissatisfaction over the acute shortage of teaching staff. According to sources, the school has more than 300 students enrolled across eight classes, but only four teachers are currently posted. Due to the limited number of teachers, managing all classes simultaneously has become nearly impossible. While one teacher conducts a class, students of other sections are often left unattended, affecting the overall academic environment. Parents and students allege that regular studies have been severely hamper In a mark of protest, students returned their uniforms to the school authorities, urging the administration to address the issue at the earliest. The unique demonstration has drawn attention from the local community.ed, raising concerns about the quality of education. The headmaster of the school has acknowledged the shortage of teachers and admitted that it has been difficult to maintain proper academic discipline. He has appealed to higher authorities to take immediate steps to fill the vacant posts and ensure the smooth functioning of the institution. Further action from the education department is awaited.“It is for our education that the school provides us with uniforms and food. So, our protest is for our education. We are not able to study properly because of a lack of teachers. We will starve, no, take the uniforms until we get 2-3 teachers,” alleged a student.Likewise, the school headmaster said, “There is a dire need for teachers in the school since the last six months. While there are supposed to be seven teachers, one of them has been promoted to CRCC, while two others are on maternity leave. There are four teachers for 309 students in eight classes. Guardians are upset and are allowing students to protest. No one is willing to listen to me and go to school. They have refused to eat their MDM. I’m helpless now,” alleged the school HM.
Students return uniforms, boycott classes over teacher shortage in Odisha school
