Karnataka Teachers Unite: A Resounding 'No' to Survey Duties Amidst Crucial Academic Period

Across Karnataka, the hallways of learning are echoing with a different kind of lesson – a powerful protest by dedicated teachers. Thousands of educators are raising their voices, united against the burden of being assigned duties for the extensive Social and Educational Survey. Their message is clear: 'Our priority is the classroom, not the census!'

This widespread agitation stems from a deep-seated concern that these non-academic responsibilities are severely disrupting the academic calendar.

With crucial examinations on the horizon and vast portions of the syllabus still awaiting completion, teachers argue that diverting their time and energy to household surveys is a disservice to their students and the entire education system. The Karnataka State Primary School Teachers' Association, along with other prominent bodies like the Karnataka State High School Assistant Teachers' Association and the Karnataka State Permanent Teachers' Association, have highlighted the immense pressure teachers are already under.

The Social and Educational Survey, spearheaded by the Karnataka State Backward Classes Commission, is an ambitious undertaking aimed at collecting vital data on the socio-economic and educational status of households across the state.

While acknowledging the survey's importance, teachers point to past experiences where similar non-teaching assignments led to significant academic setbacks. They recall how previous election duties or other government surveys have left students struggling to catch up, impacting their overall learning outcomes.

In their fervent appeals, educators are not merely protesting; they are also proposing pragmatic solutions.

They advocate for the utilization of other government personnel – such as Panchayat Development Officers (PDOs), Grama Sevakas, Anganwadi workers, and staff from various government departments – who are equally capable of executing the survey without compromising the critical academic environment.

This, they argue, would ensure both the successful completion of the survey and the uninterrupted flow of education.

The intensity of their resolve has been demonstrated through various channels. Teachers' associations have submitted detailed memorandums to the Chief Minister, the Minister for Primary and Secondary Education, and respective Deputy Commissioners across the state.

These petitions meticulously outline their grievances and reiterate their demand for immediate exemption from survey duties. The collective 'Karnataka Rajya Shikshakara Sangha Okkoota' (Karnataka State Teachers' Unions Federation) has further amplified this unified call, emphasizing the need for the government to recognize and respect their primary role as educators.

As the academic year progresses towards its critical phase, the teachers of Karnataka stand firm in their protest.

They believe that quality education is the bedrock of society, and their ability to deliver it must not be undermined by additional, non-academic responsibilities. Their plea is not just for themselves, but for the future of their students, urging the government to make a decision that safeguards both the integrity of the survey and the sanctity of education.