Kerala Government allows temporary promotion of unqualified teachers ‘in public interest’ as several schools remain headless

The Government is reported to have issued the order to avoid a possible administrative logjam because of shortage of head teachers as classes resume on November 1

The Education Department has given the go-ahead for temporary promotion of unqualified persons as head teachers in government lower primary schools and upper primary schools in the State “in public interest” ahead of resumption of classes on November 1.

This is against the backdrop of around 2,000 such schools remaining headless following a court stay on promotions in a case filed by teachers who passed the mandatory department-level tests to qualify for the post. The Kerala Administrative Tribunal too had ruled against regular promotions until disposal of the case or lifting of the interim stay. At least 12 years of teaching experience and clearing of department-level tests and an exam on the Kerala Education Act and Rules are mandatory as per the Right to Education Act to become a head teacher.