A DISTURBING trend is emerging in private schools; the hiring of underage teachers, barely older than their students, often aged 17-20 years. This practice, driven by financial pressures faced by various segments in society, jeopardises the quality of education the children receive.

These young individuals not only lack the essential experience, qualifications, but also maturity to effectively manage a classroom and guide their students. While delivering lessons is crucial, teachers play a vital role in understanding student psychology, navigating their academic and personal challenges, and fostering their holistic development. Underage educators, still in their formative years themselves, are ill-equipped for such demanding responsibilities.

Furthermore, the meagre compen-sation offered, often ranging from Rs3,000 to Rs5,000, incentivises the young teachers to prioritise immediate financial needs over their own education, and the wellbeing of the students they teach. This creates a vicious cycle that compromises the quality of education for everyone involved.

I personally witnessed the negative impact of this practice during my time in grade VIII. Our class was taught by a first-year student whose own learning skills were still inadequate. This not only disrupted our academic progress, but also hindered our overall growth.

The Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (Peira) must take immediate action to curb this practice. Besides, stringent enforcement of legal guidelines is necessary to safeguard the educational integrity of private institutions.

Additionally, parents, as the primary stakeholders in their children’s education, must be vigilant. Before enrolling their children in private schools, they should actively inquire about the qualifications and experience of the teaching staff in order to ensure a high-quality learning environment for their children.

Sajjad Ali Mugheri
Larkana

Published in Dawn, May 14th, 2024