Sentiments hurt: ReT teachers regret misinformation in Vision Document-2047

Srinagar, Nov 23: The School Education Department (SED) has sought remarks from the Directorate of Samagra Shiksha J&K about the claims made over ReT and RReT teachers of the School Education Department (SED), in the Vision Document-2047 of the J&K government.

The move comes after a representation was submitted by J&K Rehbar-e-Taleem Teachers Forum (JKRTTF), expressing remorse over what they allege is misinformation regarding Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) and Regularised Rehbar-e-Taleem (RReT) teachers within the SED.
In this regard, a formal letter, addressed to the Project Director of Samagra Shiksha J&K, has been shot by Joint Director (Planning) SED, Parshotam Kumar.

As per the letter, the department has sought a thorough examination of the issue in light of the concerns raised by the JKRET.
The Vision Document-2047, the latest policy outline by the government, raised eyebrows by asserting that a substantial number of teaching professionals lack the requisite qualifications.

“Over 36,000 Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReTs) and Regularised Rehbar-e-Taleem (RReTs) teachers not possessing the desired level of qualification have been regularised,” the Vision Document reads.

The ReT and RReT teachers however opposed the information presented in the Vision Document saying that it was inaccurate and has caused distress among their ranks.
The Director of Planning in his letter to Project Director Samagra Shiksha has stated that the remarks have hurt the sentiments of ReTs and RRETs cadre. The Joint Director's letter instructs the Project Director to furnish comments on the matter so that they can be forwarded to the Planning Development and Monitoring Department for necessary rectification.

Over the years, ReT and erstwhile SSA teachers have been instrumental in the success of government schools, especially in far-flung areas.
Official figures released by the education department indicated a shift of students from private to government schools in many villages, largely attributed to the contributions of the SSA and ReT teaching community.

Contrary to the negative portrayal in the Vision Document, these teachers have been actively involved in various initiatives, including conducting community classes and developing online study materials during the pandemic, benefitting countless students.

The SED, in previous years, strategically deployed ReT and SSA teachers in high and higher secondary schools, addressing the shortage of subject-specific teachers and contributing significantly to driving reforms and improving academic standards.

Given this, all eyes are on the remarks of Project Director Samagra Shiksha with implications for both, the credibility of the Vision Document-2047 and the professional standing of the ReT and RReT teaching community in Jammu and Kashmir.