Dhaulagiri Basic School in Myagdi has equal students and staff

In Myagdi’s Annapurna Rural Municipality-4, the number of students and staff at Dhaulagiri Basic School in Bhalebas is equal. Established in 2040 BS, the school currently has only three students enrolled, with an equal number of teachers and staff.

There are no students in grades 1 and 2 at the school.

Currently, only the preschool and grade 3 have students. Jessica Khadka is enrolled in preschool, while Nelson Roka and Shrisa Khadka are in grade 3, making a total of three students.

The school employs permanent teacher and principal Shanti Ramjali, early childhood facilitator Shikha Bohora Chhetri, and school assistant Surjana Roka.

Due to the declining number of students, the rural municipality cut one teaching position last year.

According to Principal Ramjali, rapid migration and a declining birth rate are the main reasons for the current situation at the school. Within the school’s service area, there are only 15 households in Bhalebas and 10 in Kopchepani. Until 2072 BS, the school had between 15 to 20 students, but the declining birth rate and increasing migration have left the school deserted.

In 2075 BS, the school building in Kopchepani was swept away by the Kali Gandaki flood, prompting the relocation to Bhalebas. Despite having a well-equipped building, toilets, and child-friendly classrooms, the lack of students remains a problem. According to local resident Tularam Budha, children from neighboring villages Gadpar and Kavre have to walk about an hour to reach their schools. Therefore, the school continues to operate to ensure that the few children in the village are not deprived of their right to education, despite the low numbers.

Annapurna Rural Municipality’s other basic schools in Thada, Kindu, Swant, Gharap, and Chitre also face low student numbers. Municipality Chairman India Kumar Pun stated that due to geographical challenges and scattered settlements, the policy will be to downgrade classes and manage staffing in schools with low student numbers.