Babelapara, April 17: Chief minister Conrad K. Sangma was felicitated by teachers at Babelapara Higher Secondary School on Friday in recognition of his government’s decision to introduce the Structured Pay Framework (SPF) for fixed-pay teachers under the Education Department.
The felicitation programme, organised by the school’s staff and School Managing Committee (SMC) in collaboration with the All Meghalaya Upper Primary & Secondary Deficit Pattern School Teachers’ Association, underscored the significance of the new policy aimed at ensuring a transparent and equitable pay structure, along with improved service conditions and social security benefits for teachers.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister lauded the role of teachers and school management committees in strengthening the education system, particularly in rural areas. He acknowledged the contribution of deficit pattern schools in expanding access to education and said the Structured Pay Framework would provide a sustainable remuneration system for fixed-pay teachers.
Among those present were Ian Botham K. Sangma and Rakesh A. Sangma, who attended the programme as Guests of Honour.
In his remarks, Ian Botham K. Sangma emphasised the need to strengthen educational infrastructure and ensure continued government support for deficit pattern schools. He acknowledged the dedication of teachers working in challenging conditions and called for collaborative efforts to address key concerns in the sector. He also assured that steps would be taken to improve facilities and expand opportunities for students in the constituency.
The programme began with the reception and felicitation of dignitaries, followed by a welcome song presented by students. Carmel R. Marak, President of the School Managing Committee, delivered the welcome address, while Lindias D. Sangma, Secretary of the Deficit Pattern Teachers Association-Meghalaya, spoke on behalf of the association.
A cultural segment featuring a fusion dance by students added colour to the event. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Principal of Babelapara Higher Secondary School.
The Structured Pay Framework will cover multiple categories of teachers, including SSA and RMSA teachers, Adhoc teachers, 4th Teachers, Science and Hindi Grant teachers, and Pre-Primary teachers. The framework provides for a structured system comprising base pay linked to years of service, a three percent annual increment, and a contributory provident fund with equal contributions from both employer and employee.
