ICT@School project extended until November 30; teachers seek regularisation

PTI, Oct 10, 2026, Kolkata: The West Bengal School Education Department has extended the ICT@School project until November 30, but computer teachers engaged under phases VI and VII continue to demand regularisation and direct contractual engagement with the government.

In a recently issued order, the department directed the West Bengal Electronics Industry Development Corporation Limited (WBEIDCL) to continue with the existing vendor for Phases IV, V and VI from October 1 to November 30, or until the e-tender is finalised, whichever is earlier. The extension is intended to ensure the uninterrupted continuation of the project.

The department has assured that existing ICT coordinators will not be replaced even if a new vendor is appointed. Coordinators engaged under Phase VI will continue unless WBEIDCL identifies any serious adverse matter requiring action.

The department has also approached the Personnel and Administrative Reforms Department and the Finance Department to seek improved service conditions for coordinators engaged under phases VI and VII.

However, around 3,719 computer teachers engaged under the two phases are seeking service conditions similar to those granted to teachers engaged under phases I to V, who were allowed to continue in service until the age of 60.

The teachers had opposed fresh e-tendering for 2,000 schools, arguing that their experience should be recognised before any change of agency.