Shillong: In a significant policy shift, the Meghalaya cabinet approved a measure on October 24 to increase the upper age limit for serving Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) teachers applying for government teaching positions to 45 years.
This decision, announced by Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma, will benefit teachers across all educational levels, from lower primary to higher secondary schools.
The cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma in the North Garo Hills District, aims to address ongoing concerns from the Meghalaya SSA Schools Association, which has been advocating for the regularisation of over 13,000 SSA teachers across the state.
The association had recently issued a two-month ultimatum to the government to take action regarding their demands.
In addition to the age limit adjustment, the cabinet also approved several other initiatives, including:
- A loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank for the “Support Human Capital Development in Meghalaya – Phase II” project, where the central government will cover 90% of the loan as a grant, leaving the state to bear the remaining 10%.
- New regulations governing rental housing and the allotment of government quarters for state employees.
- Enhanced authority for the Housing Department to better manage assets and improve infrastructure.
This policy change reflects the government’s commitment to improving educational opportunities and addressing the concerns of SSA teachers in Meghalaya.