Daringibadi: Students of Taperingia Primary school at Budaguda panchayat under this block in Kandhamal district had to return home Tuesday since the teachers did not turn up even until 11 am.
“Students like every other day came to their school, some traveling long distances, just to find the school gates locked. None of the teachers or staff showed up at the school. They were seen waiting at the gate under the sun, hoping the arrival of school staff. Finally the students returned home,” local residents alleged.
They also alleged that teachers reaching school late has become a regular practice. “Our children reach at the school earlier than them. If students can reach on time, why not they” they asked.
Cluster Resource Center Coordinator Sanjib Pradhan said, “Previously there were 64 students and two teachers in Taperingia School. Now the enrolment stands at 54 as some students left the school due to one or the other reasons.”
Admitting the allegation that headmaster Prasanna Kanhar remains absent on most school days, Pradhan said, Kanhar has been reprimanded many times but no change has been noticed in his attitude.
Pradhan also said that he was at Daringibadi office to get some official works done and later would pay a visit to the school to see the situation for himself.
When contacted however, Daringibadi block education officer (BEO) Purendra Behera, said Sanjib Pradhan never came to the office and he ought to have been in his area.
“I will investigate the matter and take action against anybody who is found guilty,” said Behera.
PNN
