In a sweeping directive that could impact hundreds of unrecognised schools across Meghalaya, the Education Department has warned of imminent shutdowns unless formal recognition is secured within six months. Acting under the provisions of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, the department has sounded the alarm on institutions operating without mandatory clearance.
“This is to inform all concerned that in compliance with the provisions of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTF) Act, 2009, all schools currently operating without formal recognition are hereby directed to submit their application for recognition by duly filling Form 1 and submitting it to the respective District School Education Officers (DSEOs),” declared Banteilang J. Kharshandi, MCS, Director of School Education & Literacy, Meghalaya.
The department has made it clear that schools must obtain formal recognition from the competent authority within six months from the date of issuance of the notice. “Failure to secure recognition within the stipulated time frame shall result in the closure of the school and it shall not be permitted to continue operations thereafter,” Kharshandi warned.
He further cautioned against any attempts to open new schools without prior permission: “No new school shall be allowed to open, without obtaining prior recognition from the Government.”
With the clock ticking, school authorities have been urged to immediately approach their respective DSEOs to initiate the process. The directive marks a major compliance crackdown aimed at ensuring every child’s right to quality education under the law.
