A Member of Parliament stated that Bhutan currently employs about 1,750 contract teachers, 2,480 ESP and GSP staff, and 295 non-formal education (NFE) instructors. He recalled that under Pledge No. 06, the government promised to regularize contract employees by placing them in para-regular positions with benefits comparable to those of permanent civil servants.
However, the MP expressed concern that many contract teachers, despite serving for several years, have not had their contracts renewed, creating uncertainty about job security. In some cases, teachers were replaced following policy shifts, raising questions about consistency in employment practices. He asked the Ministry of Education and Skills Development (MoESD) to clarify whether eligible teachers’ contracts would be renewed to ensure equity and stability. He also drew attention to NFE instructors, noting that many have worked for decades without pay raises or retirement benefits, and sought concrete plans to improve their conditions.
Education Minister Yeezang De Thapa responded that school visits showed many contract teachers performing strongly. She explained that a special sub-committee was formed on 29 January 2024 to review regularization. Initial one- to two-year contracts have been extended to five years, with renewals based on school needs. She highlighted differences between professional teachers and support staff and noted that a proposed National Teaching Service, pending RCSC approval, would create a clearer career pathway for contract teachers.