The Adarsh Schools in the State, which aim to provide quality and affordable education to poor students in the CBSE pattern in the rural and backward areas, have been plagued by a plethora of problems like inadequate infrastructure, lack of faculties, shortage of funds and no regular Director at the helm of affairs.
But unfortunately, the State Government has turned a blind eye to the problems. Parents of the wards have been left in the lurch for admitting their children in these schools.
The Adarsh Schools are slated to open in 173 backward blocks of the State, according to a circular of the Central Government.
In 2017-18, the Government has planned to open 50 plus schools. For opening of the schools, the budget required is Rs 679.59 crore, which means Rs 2,000 per head for students.
But the State Government has allotted a budget of Rs 200 crore, out of which a major chunk would be spent for the salary of faculties or teachers.
So, it is no surprise that the Adarsh Schools, be it Koraput, Nabarangpur, Malkangiri or other parts of the State, are having inadequate infrastructures like hostels, playgrounds, toilets and midday meals and accommodation. In this scenario, the teachers have a feeling that like the Shiksha Sahayayks their future is also bleak. This is a de-motivating factor for the students.
Besides, the students have to face communication problems; and even in some areas, there are no motorable roads.
Due to the meagre budget as major chunk of the funds is spent on teachers’ salary, there is a compromise on the purchase of dress materials and accessories for the students. So, inferior quality of uniforms and accessories are being purchased.
To make matters worse, the Director, who is in charge, is also looking after four other departments; and there is also no nodal officer for the Adarsh Schools.