Governor launches SOP, website for implementation of key RTE provision
Shillong, Sep 19: In a step to make the Right to Education (RTE) Act more inclusive through reservation for children of disadvantaged groups and EWS category in Meghalaya, Governor CH Vijayashankar on Friday launched a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and a dedicated website in this regard.
Purpose of the SOP and the website is to effectively implement Section 12(1)(c) of the RTE Act, 2009, which mandates 25% reservation of entry-level seats in private, unaided, non-minority schools for children from disadvantaged groups and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
In his address, the Governor described the initiative as a “vital step towards inclusivity, equality, and the fulfilment of every child’s constitutional right to education”.
Terming it a step more than just legal compliance, he said, “It is a strategic investment in inclusive growth, social integration, and the future of our state of Meghalaya and the nation.”
He noted that while the SOPs provide clarity and uniformity, the new website is designed to bring “transparency and efficiency” to the process. He framed this initiative to be a “shared responsibility and a collective vision”.
The governor also commended the Education Department and other stakeholders for the initiative and urged them to work towards ensuring “the spirit of RTE Act is realised in every corner of Meghalaya.”
Addressing the occasion, Commissioner & Secretary (Education) Vijay Kumar Mantri provided a comprehensive overview of the legal and historical context behind implementation of Section 12(1)(c) of RTE Act.
He stated it to be a “long-awaited intervention” that now mandates 25% reservation of entry-level seats in private, unaided, non-minority schools for children from disadvantaged groups and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
The scheme’s intended outcome is a more inclusive and equitable education system in Meghalaya. It aims to bridge the socio-economic divide by providing children with free admission to quality private schools. A key goal is social integration, with rules ensuring these students are not segregated and receive the same facilities as their peers.
The government will provide financial support by reimbursing the schools for the tuition fees of these students. The reimbursement amount will be the lesser of either the school’s actual fees or the state’s per-child expenditure in government schools.
“The entire process, from school and student registration to admission, will be managed through a transparent online portal,” he said.
Adding a cultural dimension to the programme, out-of-school children from a Special Training Centre (SPARK) presented a performance, highlighting the mission’s child-centric vision.
In his address, State Education Mission Authority of Meghalaya (SEMAM), Samagra Siksha, State Project Director Jagdish Chelani expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality education.
