Kohima: A recent public consultation event has ignited a fiery debate over the employment prospects of certain linguistic teachers in the primary education sector in Nagaland.
The discussion stemmed from a statement made by the advisor to the Directorate of School Education, Dr Kekhrielhoulie Yhome about the recruitment of Primary Teachers (PT) over the next decade.
While addressing a gathering of student leaders in Kohima recently, Yhome had said that as far as primary teachers are concerned, such teachers must be confined to their linguistic area.
He pointed out that out of a total of 9,691 primary teachers, there are 2,644 from the Sumi tribe, 1,555 from the Ao, 840 Konyak and 710 Angami teachers. This, he noted, comprises 56% of the total primary teachers.
“It implies that for the next 10 years, we will not be recruiting Sumi and Ao PT. We will now be recruiting on linguistic based category,” Yhome had said.
Following this statement, the Ao and Sumi tribal bodies condemned the statement and demanded the withdrawal of the statement.
Responding to allegations, Yhome, on Friday issued a statement clarifying that his remark was based on statistical analysis as per the department in tandem with the service rules.
“The exercise is in no way avowed to selectively deny opportunities to any tribe or tribes or qualified youth. To those who feel that my opinion is stochastically straddled to influence employment latitudes, let me assure you that public policies are not formulated to be biased. In the labyrinth of our linguistic diversity, which also celebrates our identities, it was never my intention to hurt anyone with the use of proper nouns. I urge your discernment and understanding,” Yhome said.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
The first-time legislator said that rarely there is talk of a peaceful and honourable education solution despite the awareness that the path can help realise the people’s aspiration for a good life and a state of exception.
“A just distribution based on respect and collective care is vital for the present and imperative for the future. I do appreciate the positive public consciousness that emerged from the row. I also sincerely look forward to inclusive engagements in bettering the lives of our children,” he added.
Also Read | Nagaland: NEC-funded coffee roasting machines disbursed