Staff Reporter :
Teachers receiving government support under the MPO scheme will no longer be allowed to engage in journalism, legal practice, or any other financially profitable profession alongside their teaching duties.
The restriction is part of the newly issued MPO Policy, released on Sunday by the Secondary and Higher Education Division of the Ministry of Education.
The directive marks a significant shift. Until now, many MPO-enlisted teachers routinely worked as journalists, lawyers, or employees of private organisations.
There was no legal barrier to taking on such roles, and the practice had become common. The new policy changes that landscape entirely.
According to Clause 11.17 (a) of the updated guidelines, an MPO-listed teacher or staff member “cannot hold multiple posts or be engaged in any financially profitable position” while receiving government benefits. Any violation confirmed through investigation may result in cancellation of MPO status, alongside disciplinary measures as per government regulations.
Clause 11.17 (b) clearly defines “financially profitable positions,” explicitly naming journalism, legal practice, work in private institutions or organisations, and any form of employment – government or private – where salary, allowances, or honoraria are provided.
A senior additional secretary from the Secondary and Higher Education Division, speaking to the media on condition of anonymity, said the restrictions mirror the rules imposed on government employees.
“Civil servants are not allowed to work for any other financial organisation. MPO teachers now receive government funds, including salary support, 15 percent house rent allowance, Eid bonuses, and other benefits,” he explained.
“Since they are supported with public money, the policy instructs them not to engage in any other profit-oriented profession. Anyone violating the rules will face action,” he added.
The decision is expected to affect a sizeable number of MPO teachers across the country who have long balanced teaching with journalism, legal advocacy, or NGO work.
The ministry, however, argues that the new policy is intended to ensure full professional commitment and accountability in the education sector, particularly at a time when the government is increasing financial support and oversight. The new MPO Policy takes immediate effect.
