Teachers Call for Change in Gurukul Schools’ Work Hours

Hyderabad:Gurukul school teachers have called for the work hours of the schools to be scientifically determined, ensuring they cater to the psychological well-being of students and relieve teachers from undue stress. The demands were made on Tuesday at a round table meeting held on Monday, focusing on the impact of the newly introduced work hours on students.

Dr Vishal Akula, Telangana state secretary of the Indian Psychiatric Society, emphasised the detrimental effects of mental stress, poor nutrition and lack of physical exercise on students, which he stated could lead to mental health issues and even suicide. He urged the government to reconsider the recently issued GO No. 16, which standardises work hours across Gurukul societies.

The meeting saw participation of mental health experts, child rights activists, student and teacher union leaders and Gurukul school teachers. The new timetable has raised concerns as it is seen as unscientific and likely to increase stress among students. The lack of residential facilities within the school premises has also made the new work hours particularly challenging for the staff.

Speakers highlighted the impracticality of the schedule, which mandates continuous classes from 8 am to 11.15 am with a 10-minute break for 600 students to attend to their needs. Teachers expressed concern over the students’ hunger, as breakfast is served at 7 am, followed by lunch at 1 pm, leaving them struggling to wait. The evening schedule was also criticised, with snacks served at 4.30 pm and dinner at 6.30 pm, leading to students going to bed hungry.

The speakers demanded that the work hours be adjusted to better suit the student's needs. They also noted the hardships faced by the teachers, who must remain on duty from 8 am until 9 pm, with some required to perform night duties and stay until 2.30 pm the following day. "This schedule leaves no room for adequate rest and the lack of transport options after 9 pm poses a particular challenge for women, raising safety concerns," said P. Nagi Reddy, general secretary of the Telangana Progressive Teachers' Federation.