Tinsukia: In a startling development on Wednesday, a surprise inspection at a government-run school in Upper Assam’s Tinsukia district uncovered serious irregularities in the functioning of the institution, with an unusual excuse by the head teacher adding a striking dimension to the episode.
The inspection was carried out by District Elementary Education Officer (DEEO) Binti Sharma, accompanied by District Programme Officer (DPO) Tridip Sharma Tamuli, at Sripuria Middle English School.
According to official sources, the headmistress reportedly rushed to the school only after receiving information about the inspection. When questioned about her delay, she cited her pet dog’s illness as the reason for arriving late ,an explanation that has since drawn attention amid the larger findings of administrative lapses.
“The explanation was unusual, but what is more concerning is the overall condition of the school,” an official present during the inspection remarked.
The supervision revealed that, barring one teacher, all others were either absent or arrived late, raising serious concerns about staff accountability. The situation inside classrooms was equally alarming.
Officers found that proper class-wise segregation of students had not been implemented, forcing multiple grades to sit together in a single room.
Further compounding the issue, student attendance was reportedly not being recorded regularly.
Many students were even unaware of their own roll numbers, pointing towards a breakdown in basic academic administration.
“The foundation of primary education lies in discipline and structure. These lapses directly impact learning outcomes,” an education department source stated.
The inspection also highlighted negligence in non-teaching staff management. The school’s Chowkidar was found to be on leave without submitting any formal application.
Meanwhile, the mid-day meal scheme considered a crucial support system for students was in disarray.
Both primary cooks responsible for preparing meals were absent till as late as 10:30 AM, and there was no food stock available for cooking. This raises concerns not only about administrative efficiency but also about student welfare.
“The mid-day meal is often the only proper meal for many children. Any disruption is unacceptable,” an official noted.
The findings have cast a serious shadow on the functioning of the government education system at the grassroots level in the district.
With multiple irregularities now on record, attention has shifted to what corrective measures the education department will initiate.
Officials have indicated that a detailed report is being prepared, and appropriate action is likely to follow.
As the ‘dog excuse’ grabs headlines, the deeper issue remains systemic gaps in school management that demand urgent attention.