Mon Nov 17 11:22:23 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The Karnataka Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) is proposing a rule amendment that would require lecturers from Government Pre-University Colleges (PUC) to also teach classes 9 and 10 in high schools. This move aims to integrate PUC staff under the Department of Public Instruction, similar to the structure in Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) which offer education from classes 1 to 12. However, the proposal faces strong opposition from PUC principals and lecturers who fear it will dilute academic standards, diminish their professional status (reducing them from Group B to Group C cadre), and add undue burden. They threaten protests if the amendment proceeds.

News Article:

Karnataka PUC Lecturers Face Mandate to Teach High School Classes, Sparking Outrage

Bengaluru, November 17, 2025 – A contentious proposal by the Karnataka Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) to require Government Pre-University College (PUC) lecturers to teach classes 9 and 10 in high schools is drawing fierce opposition. The DSEL is seeking to amend the ‘Karnataka General Services (Pre-University Education) (Recruitment) Rules 2013′, effectively placing PUC colleges under the Department of Public Instruction.

The move is intended to align the educational structure with Karnataka Public Schools (KPS), which provide education from classes 1 to 12 under one roof, a model similar to CBSE and ICSE schools. The government intends to start 900 new KPS across the state. Supporters of the plan state the change is intended to address staffing needs in high schools and create a more unified educational system.

However, PUC lecturers and principals are vehemently protesting the proposed changes. They argue that it will degrade the quality of pre-university education, which is considered a vital bridge to higher education. Furthermore, they believe the amendment will negatively impact their professional standing, reducing their cadre from Group B to Group C and adding significantly to their workload.

“This amendment threatens academic discipline, administrative rights, and the very autonomy of our department,” stated Ningegowda A.H., president of the Karnataka State Pre-University Colleges Lecturers’ Association. “Reducing lecturers to Group-C cadre undermines their professional dignity. We are preparing students for higher education, not extending the school level. If this proposal isn’t dropped, we will be forced to boycott classes and stage protests.”

The government had previously attempted a similar amendment in 2022 but abandoned it following opposition. The lecturers’ association warns of widespread disruption if the government proceeds with the current proposal. The coming weeks are crucial as both sides prepare for a potential showdown over the future of pre-university education in Karnataka.

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