Silchar: Serious concern has been raised over the poor performance of government schools in the HSLC examination across the three districts of Barak Valley, even as a remote tea garden school has set an inspiring example with its remarkable results.

In a press statement, Pradip Dutta Roy, founder president of alumni body ACKHSA, described this year’s HSLC results as deeply disappointing. He stressed the urgent need for a thorough review, particularly of government schools.

According to him, the pass percentage in Cachar district stood at only 49.3 percent. At a government boys’ school in Silchar, just one student passed, reflecting a wider trend seen across most government institutions. He added that private schools too have performed below expectations compared to previous years.

Roy pointed out that many students in government schools come from economically weaker sections and often lack adequate support from their families. However, he cautioned against placing the blame solely on students or teachers, stating that systemic failures in the district’s education structure are equally responsible.

He highlighted several key issues, including a shortage of teachers for both compulsory and elective subjects, and the lack of regular school inspections, which has resulted in poor academic planning and weak accountability. He also noted that teachers are frequently assigned non-academic duties, disrupting regular teaching.

Alleging political interference in school management committees, he said many members lack proper understanding or commitment to the education system. In addition, he flagged serious infrastructural gaps, with many schools lacking basic facilities such as clean toilets, safe drinking water, reliable electricity, and adequate classrooms.

Calling for immediate corrective action, Roy urged the government and district administration to initiate discussions involving students, teachers, and parents. He also emphasized the need to involve experienced educators from the region in meaningful dialogue to begin reforms in the education system.

Amid the concerns, Hilal Uddin Laskar highlighted a positive development from a remote area. He said the Muktiyoddha Pitambar Kurmi Adarsha Vidyalaya, located in Gambhira Tea Garden under the Ramakrishnanagar education block, recorded an impressive pass percentage of 72.5.

He informed that 20 students secured first division, while 30 passed in second division, and 32 candidates obtained letter marks in various subjects. Notably, students Panchami Nath and Priya Das scored full marks in Bengali, while Jyotika Kohar and Sonakshi Das achieved the same in Sanskrit.

Laskar said the achievement of students from such a remote rural background is a matter of pride for the entire Barak Valley. He noted that the school’s success clearly shows that with a supportive environment, dedicated teachers, and active school management, government schools can also deliver excellent results. It also proves that talent is not limited to urban areas.

He congratulated the students and wished them continued success, while also urging social and cultural organisations across Barak Valley to come forward and encourage such meritorious students from remote regions.

The press statement was issued by Pankaj Debroy on behalf of ACKHSA.