APTF demands cancellation of residential teacher trainings, warns agitation

Vijayawada – Andhra Pradesh: The Andhra Pradesh Teachers’ Federation (APTF) has called for the immediate cancellation of residential teacher trainings, citing the unnecessary strain on educators and recent tragic incidents. The union has warned of state-wide protests if the government fails to heed their demand. To this effect they released a pressnote on Thursday, outlining their demands.

Call for non-residential training format

APTF President Chennupati Manjula and General Secretary K Bhanumurthy emphasized the need to shift teacher training programs to a non-residential format. They highlighted that teachers already work full days, from 9 am to 4 pm, and requiring them to attend residential trainings adds undue pressure.

Criticism of government inaction

The union criticized government officials for ignoring repeated requests from teachers’ unions to reconsider the training format. Despite appeals, the officials continue to enforce the residential system, disregarding the teachers’ concerns.

Tragic incidents underscore urgency

APTF pointed to the recent death of teacher Srinivasa Rao in Gajapatinagar, just ten days after the Agiripalli incident, as a stark reminder of the toll such programs can take. They argued that these incidents highlight the urgent need for a change in policy.

Demand for Minister’s intervention

APTF leaders have urged Education Minister Nara Lokesh to address the issue promptly. They called for an immediate halt to ongoing residential training programs and a transition to non-residential procedures to respect the well-being of teachers.

The union warned that failure to act will result in widespread agitation across the state, underscoring their determination to prioritize the welfare of teachers.