KARACHI:
The poor performance of school management committees (SMCs) in government primary schools across Sindh is deeply concerning. SMCs are supposed to ensure quality education, proper utilisation of funds, coordinate with the education department and monitor attendance. However, many SMCs either lack competent members or do not operate at all. They do not have proper plans for monitoring and regulating academic activities due to which they avoid regular meetings.
The SMCs should be reconstituted, and school administration including principals should be guided about identifying qualified SMC members and creating committees. The SMCs should be trained and empowered to oversee school affairs and report problems to officials. They should also be involved in planning, implementing, and monitoring school development plans, funds, and budgets. Teachers should be directed to update SMC members with academic progress regularly to implement changes and tackle challenges.
The names of SMC members of different schools should also be displayed on the government website to hold them accountable for their progress or lack thereof. Improving the role of SMCs and ensuring their smooth functioning can go a long way in enhancing the quality of education and promoting good governance and transparency.
Mumtaz Ali
Johi
Published in The Express Tribune, August 9th, 2023.
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