Three teachers, only four students: Community school in Dhangadhi faces sharp decline in enrollment

Kailali: A primary school in Khutiyatole, Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City-14, Kailali, has seen a drastic drop in student enrollment, with only four students enrolled for the academic session 2082.

The school, which offers classes from Early Childhood Development (ECD) up to Grade 3, currently has two students in Grade 1 and two in Grade 3, according to Principal Ras Bahadur Budha. No students have been enrolled in the remaining grades.

Principal Budha attributed the decline in enrollment to rumors that the school would not reopen due to the teachers’ strike that began in Chaitra. “During the enrollment period, there was a teachers' strike, and the school remained closed for an extended period. As a result, all the students joined private schools,” he said. “Now, we are prepared to accept whatever decision the local government makes.”

Despite having adequate infrastructure—including drinking water, toilets, a school building, and a playground—the school, which currently employs three teachers and staff members, has become largely vacant. Last academic session, the school had 19 students enrolled.

Ward Chairman of Dhangadhi-14, Man Bahadur Bista, visited the school following complaints about the low number of students. After the inspection, Chairman Bista stated that discussions would be held with the Sub-Metropolitan City regarding whether to merge the school or explore alternative solutions.