The Arunachal Pradesh government has appointed 33 new teachers to Longding district. This decision came in response to mounting pressure from civil society and youth groups who highlighted the severe shortage of teaching staff in the region.
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Campaign led by Wancho Students’ Union
The movement began with the Wancho Students’ Union (WSU) and other youth organizations raising awareness about the lack of teachers in government schools. They organised sit-ins, submitted memorandums, and held peaceful rallies to draw attention to the situation.
The protest gained momentum in July, with support pouring in from various community members and educational advocates. Parents, students, and former teachers joined the cause, making it a grassroots campaign for educational justice.
On Monday, the state government announced the appointment of 33 teachers for Longding district. The new recruits include Trained Graduate Teachers (TGTs) and Primary Teachers (PRTs), set to join duty at the earliest.
Longding’s chronic teacher shortage
Located near the Indo-Myanmar border, Longding has long faced developmental challenges. Poor infrastructure, remote terrain, and lack of staff have affected public services, especially education.
Many schools have functioned with just one or two teachers. Some schools operated without any regular teaching staff, depending only on ad-hoc arrangements or volunteers.
According to local sources, more than 100 teaching posts in the district remain vacant. The recent appointment of 33 teachers addresses only a portion of the shortfall but marks a positive step forward.
Students’ learning hit hard
The lack of teachers led to a steep decline in learning outcomes. Students in Class 10 and 12 often struggled due to the absence of subject specialists.
The WSU president highlighted that many schools had no math or science teachers. In some schools, primary students were clubbed into one classroom under a single instructor.
This situation forced several families to shift their children to boarding schools outside the district, causing financial stress and community disruption.
State government responds
Acknowledging the seriousness of the issue, Education Minister Taba Tedir said, “We appreciate the patience shown by the people of Longding. The teacher appointments will be followed by further measures to improve school facilities.”
He also stated that the state has begun a district-wise review of teaching vacancies and will prioritize underserved areas like Longding, Tirap, and Kra-Daadi.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein lauded the democratic nature of the protest and assured the community that their voices had been heard.
Youth leaders celebrate but remain cautious
Though the teacher appointment was celebrated as a victory, youth leaders remain vigilant. They have demanded timely posting of the appointed teachers and regular monitoring of school attendance.
The Wancho Youth Association called it a “partial victory” and said, “We will continue to press for the filling of all vacant posts. Our children deserve equal access to education.”
Activists have also urged the government to provide quarters for teachers posted in remote areas, as lack of accommodation has led to high attrition in the past.
Community takes charge of education
Over the years, Longding’s residents have taken on the responsibility of keeping schools running. Several villages had engaged volunteers or retired teachers to educate children in the absence of official staff.
In one village, parents pooled funds to pay a local graduate who taught classes while awaiting a permanent posting.
Such efforts reflect the community’s value for education, despite hardships. The recent success of their campaign reinforces the power of collective civic action.
Need for long-term solutions
While the appointments offer short-term relief, experts stress the need for a structural solution. Teacher transfers, absenteeism, and uneven postings must be addressed through transparent policies.
A teacher training and incentive plan tailored for border districts could help retain skilled educators. Additionally, digital learning infrastructure might support continuity where physical presence is limited.
Monitoring committees involving local bodies could ensure accountability and regular teacher attendance.
The appointment of 33 teachers in Longding is a result of strong civic engagement and effective grassroots advocacy. It marks a turning point for the district’s education system, though more needs to be done.
The people of Longding have shown that informed, peaceful protest can bring about meaningful change. As Arunachal moves forward, their demand is simple—equal education for every child, no matter how remote the region.
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