Some teachers trained to teach in secondary schools are reportedly being posted to primary schools, raising questions about teacher deployment. However, the Education and Skills Development Minister said that the ministry has not received any official complaints about such placements. Speaking at Friday’s Meet the Press session, the minister clarified that teacher placements are carried out by the Royal Civil Service Commission, not the ministry.
Teachers who complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) are generally deployed to secondary schools in accordance with RCSC’s placement directives.
The education ministry submits its teacher requirements to the RCSC. The Commission then recruits and places candidates based on merit. Candidates are also allowed to choose their preferred postings based on their merit ranking and available vacancies.
The minister said some PGDE graduates may be posted to primary schools to address teacher shortages and ensure classes continue without disruption.
“There is currently an excess of Dzongkha teachers in some districts. So, I am assuming that a few Dzongkha PGDE graduates may be posted to primary schools. The RCSC does not deliberately place PGDE graduates in primary schools. Placements are made based on vacancies, the requirements submitted and the candidate’s preferences according to merit. Some may be deployed to primary schools to address teacher shortages and ensure teaching and learning continue,” said Yeezang De Thapa, Education and Skills Development Minister.
The minister said both B.Ed. and PGDE graduates are trained to teach Dzongkha across different school levels and that such placements do not constitute a mismatch in qualifications.
“For example, if a secondary school mathematics teacher is asked to teach in a primary school, the teacher will still be able to do so because it is basic mathematics. If they face challenges, the ministry continues to provide professional development training.”
The minister added that districts have the authority to reassign teachers based on staffing needs to ensure schools have adequate teachers.
Meanwhile, the minister said the ministry will look into the matter only if it receives a formal written complaint.
Sonam Yuden
Edited by Sonam Pem
