Critical Leadership Void in Uttarakhand Schools

Uttarakhand's schools are grappling with a severe shortage of principals, as more than 80% of positions remain unfilled. Data obtained via RTI shows 831 of 910 high school principal posts vacant, while intermediate colleges face similar issues with 1,180 of 1,248 posts vacant. Pauri and Tehri districts are most affected.

Uttarakhand's educational institutions are facing a daunting challenge as over 80% of high schools and intermediate colleges operate without principals. This situation was highlighted by data from the secondary education department in response to an RTI application.

The alarming figures reveal that 831 out of 910 sanctioned principal positions in the state's high schools are currently unfilled, with Pauri district worst hit, having 109 of its 116 posts vacant.

In intermediate colleges, the problem persists with 1,180 of the 1,248 sanctioned principal positions vacant. Tehri district is particularly struggling, with 172 of its 183 posts remaining empty.

(With inputs from agencies.)