Is the School Merger Policy a Strategy to Deny Education to the Poor?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Akhilesh Yadav highlights the troubling implications of the Uttar Pradesh government's school merger policy, claiming it disproportionately affects rural students. He stresses the importance of educational access for all and vows to support teachers if re-elected.
Key Takeaways
- School merger policy criticized as detrimental to the poor.
- Impact on rural education highlighted.
- Commitment from the Samajwadi Party to support teachers.
- Concerns over unfilled teaching positions.
- Call for empathy towards educators.
Lucknow, June 20 (NationPress) Samajwadi Party (SP) President Akhilesh Yadav has criticized the Uttar Pradesh government, asserting that its school merger policy is a deliberate tactic to deny the less fortunate access to education.
During a press conference held on Friday, Yadav stated, “The quicker teachers and parents recognize that the BJP government is against education and teachers, the sooner we can initiate change.”
Labeling the government as “heartless,” the former Chief Minister noted that this policy would have a disproportionate impact on rural students.
“This is an intentionally devised plan to keep poor and marginalized children from receiving an education. With school closures, children in rural locales will find themselves excluded from the educational system,” he added.
Yadav, who has a personal connection to the teaching community, remarked, “Being the son of a teacher, I have a profound bond with educators. Their struggles resonate with me. Netaji (Mulayam Singh Yadav) was also a teacher, and he never ceased to embody that spirit.”
He accused the BJP government of neglecting the longstanding needs of teachers.
“Over two lakh positions in the education sector remain unfilled. There has been no significant recruitment initiative. Shiksha Mitras and aspiring teachers have been protesting for years but remain overlooked,” he noted.
Additionally, he condemned the rollout of a digital attendance system for educators, claiming it was implemented without adequate infrastructure and aimed at harassment.
“Teachers are being targeted instead of receiving support. This government lacks empathy,” he claimed.
“When it comes to teachers, the BJP government remains unresponsive. Fewer schools lead to slower growth, fewer jobs, and limited opportunities. We do not desire a government that lacks compassion,” Yadav emphasized.
He reiterated the commitment of the Samajwadi Party to support the teaching community and address their concerns if they regain power.
Point of View
It's essential to consider the long-term effects of such policies on rural communities and the educational landscape as a whole.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main criticism by Akhilesh Yadav regarding school mergers?
Akhilesh Yadav criticizes the school merger policy as a calculated strategy to deny poor children access to education.
How does the school merger policy affect rural students?
Yadav claims that the policy disproportionately impacts rural students, forcing them out of the education system due to school closures.
What are the concerns raised about teacher vacancies?
Yadav highlights that over two lakh teaching positions are unfilled and that there has been no significant recruitment drive.
