Ludhiana: Nearly 190 govt middle schools in Ludhiana district are functioning without dedicated sports, art and craft, and computer teachers, forcing existing staff to take on multiple roles and raising concerns over the quality of co-curricular and skill-based education.Teachers and education department officials said most middle schools catering to Classes VI to VIII are operating with only four or five teachers, who handle several subjects beyond their specialisation. In many schools, science teachers are also taking mathematics classes, while students interested in sports have no dedicated coach or physical education instructor.The shortage has also hit computer education. Officials said computer teachers from nearby senior secondary schools visit middle schools only twice a week to conduct classes, leaving students with limited exposure to digital learning.Teachers said vacancies continue despite sanctioned posts being increased in some schools. “We are managing somehow, but dedicated teachers for sports and other subjects are needed. The gaps should be filled at the earliest,” said a teacher at a govt middle school.Students, too, voiced concerns. A Class VII student said the absence of regular sports teachers and proper playground facilities was affecting those keen to pursue sports.A senior education department official acknowledged the shortage, saying most middle schools function with four or five teachers who have to manage multiple subjects. Additional teachers may be posted in some schools depending on enrolment strength, the official added.District education officer Dimple Madaan could not be contacted for a comment.
