Pune: Maharashtra’s Night Schools Face Teacher Shortage, Reduced Teaching Hours; Educators Seek Policy Review

Pune, 20th July 2026: Night schools across Maharashtra are facing mounting challenges due to a shortage of teachers, changes in government policy and reduced teaching hours, raising concerns over the future of thousands of working students who depend on these institutions to continue their education.

Night schools have traditionally provided educational opportunities to students who are unable to attend regular classes because of financial constraints, employment or other personal commitments. However, educators say the current challenges are affecting both the quality of education and the overall functioning of these institutions.

According to available data, Maharashtra has around 176 night schools, with the highest concentration of schools and junior colleges located in Mumbai. In 2017, the School Education Department issued a Government Resolution (GR) recognising teachers in night schools as full-time staff, a move that educationists say significantly improved academic standards and administrative efficiency.

However, a revised policy introduced in 2022 altered the staffing pattern by assigning teachers from morning schools to conduct classes in night schools. Teachers argue that the arrangement has increased their workload while reducing the availability of dedicated faculty for evening students.

Another major concern is the reduction in instructional hours. Earlier, night schools functioned for three-and-a-half hours each day, but the duration has reportedly been reduced to two-and-a-half hours, making it difficult to complete the syllabus and maintain the quality of instruction.

Former night school principal Avinash Takawale urged the state government to retain the 2017 policy, saying it had provided for full-time teaching and non-teaching staff, thereby strengthening the functioning of night schools.

“The 2017 Government Resolution should not be withdrawn. It strengthened night schools by recognising full-time teachers and support staff. Reducing the working hours has adversely affected students’ education,” Takawale said.

Teachers have also demanded the appointment of a headmaster in every night school, recognition of outstanding teachers through awards, and a clear policy defining teachers’ workload and responsibilities.

Educationists believe that unless these issues are addressed urgently, the future of thousands of students who rely on night schools to balance work and education could be at risk. They have urged the state government to review the existing policy and ensure adequate staffing to safeguard Maharashtra’s night school education system.