Punjab's education system is set for a transformation with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's groundbreaking initiative to empower teachers and bridge the educational gap for students in remote areas. The project's vision, unveiled alongside Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, is set to benefit 20,000 students by providing buses to government schools, easing their access to education despite long distances between home and school.
A thorough survey highlighted the struggles of 8,000 boys and 12,000 girls, reinforcing the urgency of this transformative intervention. The initial phase targets 15 girls' schools and 117 schools of eminence, with the education department procuring seven buses for each participating school.
Moreover, the Punjab government's commitment to educational reform is evident through the regularization of 12,710 teachers in the state. CM Bhagwant Mann personally distributed appointment letters, symbolizing the government's recognition of teachers' crucial role in shaping Punjab's youth. The regularization empowers teachers with three times their previous salary, job security until the age of 58, and additional benefits like a 5 percent annual increment, paid maternity leave, and various other paid leaves.
However, the move faced some criticism from the Punjab Congress, which raised concerns about the designation of regularized teachers as associate teachers and the absence of explicit provisions regarding various allowances and benefits. Despite the reservations, the Punjab government remains steadfast in its endeavor to uplift the teaching community by ensuring that they receive fair remuneration and benefits.
This momentous decision is set to revolutionize education in Punjab, fostering a conducive learning environment for students and ensuring stability and welfare for dedicated teachers.
Report by Khushpreet
Graphics by Bhavya Aggarwal
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