PONDA: In an apparent show of unity and strength, parents from six Government Primary Schools (GPS) in Mardol gathered on Wednesday to protest against a private school’s unauthorized commencement of primary classes. Concerned about the potential threat posed to the well-established GPS institutions in Priol, parents believe the private school’s actions are driven by vested interests aimed at undermining the public education system.
The parents pointed out that the government has recently invested significant funds in upgrading the GPS schools in Priol, resulting in improved educational quality. They expressed their contentment with the current state of GPS schools and asserted that there was no need for a private school to start primary classes in Mardol. Their fear is that if private schools are permitted to open primary sections, it could lead to the closure of GPS schools, rendering quality education unaffordable to students from economically backward families.
In a collective effort, parents and villagers have signed a memorandum calling for the shutdown of the private primary school and have submitted it to the Education Department. They fear that allowing private primary schools to operate could lead to a mass exodus of students from GPS schools to private institutions, ultimately jeopardizing the survival of the public schools.
During a press briefing held at Mardol ground, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) from the six GPS schools, along with PTA chairpersons and concerned parents, emphasized that the GPS schools currently serve over 121 students with quality education provided by dedicated teachers. They also highlighted the presence of six well-operating GPS schools within a 1 to 2 km radius of Veling Priol Cuncoliem Panchayat, making the addition of a private primary school unnecessary.
In a letter addressed to the Director of Education, the parents appealed for the protection of the six GPS schools in the Panchayat to safeguard the interests of students and parents. They expressed their deep concern that the operation of the private high school’s primary section could severely threaten the existence of these public institutions. Additionally, the parents underscored the numerous benefits provided by GPS schools.
