Introduction of the Automated SMS Absenteeism Alert System
Guwahati, Dec 16: Ranoj Pegu, the Cabinet Minister, has officially launched the Automated SMS Absenteeism Alert System, a digital initiative designed to monitor student attendance and mitigate dropout rates in Assam’s schools.
During the launch on Monday, Pegu stated, “We are introducing a comprehensive system known as the Automated SMS Absenteeism Alert System, which will notify class teachers and parents about student absences.”
He explained that this system is linked with the Shiksha Setu App and will automatically send alerts if a student is absent for five consecutive days without authorization.
An SMS will be dispatched simultaneously to both the class teacher and the parents or guardians. Notifications will continue for every five days of absence, specifically on the 10th, 15th day, and so forth.
In a press conference, Pegu mentioned that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance data-driven governance in the education sector.
He noted the positive outcomes from the Shiksha Setu App and emphasized that to further enhance educational quality, Shiksha Setu data has been integrated with UDISE data.
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, the minister stated that messages will be provided in two primary local languages in each district. For instance, in BTC regions, notifications will be sent in both Assamese and Bodo to ensure parents fully comprehend the information.
Pegu added that this system would facilitate better monitoring of dropout and transition rates.
He shared that the gross enrollment rate (GER) for lower primary education was previously at 119.6%, which has been adjusted to 108% for the 2024-25 academic year.
“The combined GER for lower and upper primary education in Assam stands at 101.5%, surpassing the national average of 90.6%,” he stated.
Additionally, Pegu mentioned that feedback from teachers will be gathered to further enhance the system, which is anticipated to significantly improve attendance and retention rates in government schools throughout the state.
