Himalaya Harbinger, Rudrapur bureau.
Government schools in Udham Singh Nagar district are grappling with a severe shortage of computer teachers, despite the introduction of computer subjects from classes 1 to 12. Although computers were installed in most schools over a decade ago, no posts for computer teachers have been created at any level, leaving students without proper guidance in this critical subject.
In 2008, the government initiated efforts to modernize schools by setting up computer labs and smart classes in primary, upper primary, high schools, and intermediate colleges. However, the lack of trained computer teachers has hindered progress. According to official data, the district has 770 government primary schools, 321 upper primary schools, 200 high schools, and 128 intermediate colleges. These institutions collectively cater to over 1 lakh students, but none have dedicated computer teachers.
Two years ago, 14 Atal Utkrishta Vidyalayas were established in the district with recognition from the Uttarakhand Board and CBSE. These schools aimed to provide English-medium education and offer IT subjects. Yet, even in these schools, computer education remains neglected due to the absence of teachers.
“How can we improve the quality of education when basic subjects like computer science are being ignored? The future belongs to technology, and our students are being left behind,” said Kamala Pandey, a noted educationist.
In many schools, computers are gathering dust, and at some, they are locked away in cupboards due to the lack of infrastructure and staff. The district’s Chief Education Officer (CEO), Kunwar Singh Rawat, said, “The post of computer teacher has not been created yet. For now, working teachers have been given the responsibility of IT subjects with support from an external institution.”
“Despite the growing demand for computer knowledge and IT skills, the current system relies on teachers with minimal computer proficiency, compromising the education of thousands of students. As the world rapidly advances in technology, the lack of focus on computer education in government schools raises concerns about the future of students in the district”, said another educationist Kheemanand Semwal.
