Over SSA fiasco VPP blames former education minister

Shillong: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has called for a public apology from the then-education minister responsible for the “thoughtless” implementation of the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) program in 2009-10 in Meghalaya.

VPP spokesperson Batskhem Myrboh stated that the ongoing agitation by SSA teachers reflects the deep-seated issues within the education system, highlighting the need for accountability and introspection.

Myrboh said that the faulty implementation has led to a difficult situation for the state, teachers, students, and the public, demanding that those responsible be held accountable.

He called for action against the officers involved, suggesting withholding annual increments or promotions due to their incompetence and the significant losses incurred by the state.

The SSA program, launched in 2001, aims to achieve universal elementary education through a partnership between the central government and state governments.

It gained constitutional backing through the 86th amendment, making free and compulsory education a fundamental right for children aged 6-14.