Demand for Jobs: The Struggle of PET Candidates in Telangana

On Monday, Hyderabad witnessed yet another protest that revealed the ongoing crisis faced by Physical Education Teachers (PETs) across Telangana. PET candidates gathered at the School Education Commissioner’s office to demand immediate recruitment into long-pending vacant posts. The protest highlighted the frustration of thousands of qualified sports professionals who continue to wait for job opportunities despite dedicating their youth to sports and education.

The protest, however, took a dramatic turn when several candidates were forcefully detained by the police. Images of PET aspirants being dragged and arrested quickly spread, sparking conversations about the neglect faced by sports professionals in the state.

Why This Matters

For years, PETs and PDs (Physical Directors) have been demanding recruitment into thousands of vacant posts in schools and colleges. Their role is not just about physical training — they are responsible for building discipline, fitness, and sports culture among students. Without PETs in schools, the dream of developing sports talent at the grassroots level remains impossible.

Despite repeated assurances from leaders and policymakers, the vacancies remain unfilled, leaving sports students demoralized and professionals without livelihood. The lack of transparency in eligibility and delays in DSC notifications have only worsened the crisis.

The Voice of the Sports Students Federation

The Sports Students Federation (SSF) stands firmly with these candidates. Our movement has consistently called for:

• Immediate recruitment of all vacant PET & PD posts.

• Fair eligibility checks in DSC notifications.

• Mandatory PETs and playgrounds in every school and college.

• Respect and recognition for sports students and professionals who sacrifice years of their lives in service of athletics.

The Road Ahead

This protest is not just about jobs — it is about the dignity of sports professionals and the future of sports in Telangana. Unless action is taken, we risk losing an entire generation of talented PETs and student athletes.

The Sports Students Federation will continue to raise its voice until every PET and PD finds their rightful place in our education system, and every student in Telangana has access to quality sports education.