Zeliang Students’ Union launches indefinite agitation over teacher crisis in Peren district

DIMAPUR — Asserting that all avenues for constructive dialogue have been exhausted, the Zeliang Students’ Union (ZLSU) has launched the first phase of indefinite agitation as part of its demand for retention or replacement of math and science teachers in at least five schools of Peren district.

In a press release issued on Friday, the union informed that the first phase of agitation had started on October 9 by way of closing down all educational offices in the district. It however warned that the second phase would include closure of all the government-established schools and educational offices in the district.

“The agitation will continue unless the pressing demands for the retention or replacement of teachers are satisfactorily addressed by the concerned department,” it stated.

According to the union, the recent rationalisation exercise carried out by the Department of School Education (DoSE)—which involved transferring of teachers without replacement in the middle of the academic sessions—has gravely affected some of the best-performing government schools in the district.

“To resolve the ongoing issue, the union has exhausted all avenues for constructive dialogue including the extension of 15 days ultimatum to 30 days that was served on September 9, 2024 for retention or replacement of science and math teachers of some schools—GMS Nkialwa, GMS Mpai, GHS Mbaulwa, GMS Punglwa, GHSS Tening—and as representatives of the student body, it is our responsibility to take a stand for the rights to quality education.

“If our demands are not met the union will be left with no choice but to proceed to the second phase of agitation. This is not a decision the union considers lightly but is our commitment to ensuring a brighter future for every student as they duly deserve,” it asserted.

The ZLSU informed that during the proposed shutdown, students will not have access to their usual educational environment, leading to disruptions in learning and academic progress. It reasoned that this action is necessary to compel the authorities to take immediate and decisive action concerning the educational system in the district.

It called on all stakeholders—students, parents, educators, and community leaders—to unite in support of this initiative.

Also, the union appealed to the department to reconsider “its adamant stance” for the sake of the students.

“We urge the authorities to heed to our demands and take immediate action. If our demands remain unmet, we are prepared to escalate our protest to any extent necessary, and the concerned department will be held responsible for any untoward incident that may occur,” it added.