A recent evaluation by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has unveiled significant issues in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs), revealing a range of challenges from financial mismanagement to safety concerns. The NCERT’s report, submitted to the Ministry of Education (MoE), marks the third evaluation of these schools since their establishment in 2004, with the previous assessment conducted in 2013.
KGBVs are residential schools aimed at providing education to girls from marginalized communities in backward regions where literacy rates and gender gaps are critical. As of June 30, 2023, out of 5,639 approved KGBVs, 4,260 were fully functional, 799 were partially functional, and 580 were completely non-functional. Notably, states like Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha have the highest number of non-functional KGBVs, with Bihar alone having 132.
The NCERT report highlights several systemic issues affecting KGBVs:
1. Financial Transparency and Utilization:
The report reveals a troubling lack of transparency in the utilization of funds allocated for KGBVs. Between 2018-19 and 2021-22, ₹4,443.13 crore was allocated to states, but only ₹32.57 crore was utilized in 2019-20, representing a significant underutilization of 67.43%. The situation improved slightly in 2021-22, with ₹2,466.57 crore allocated and 76% utilized. Significant concerns have been raised due to delays in fund disbursement by both the Ministry of Education and state authorities, along with problems in submitting utilization certificates.
2. Infrastructure and Functionality:
The report points to weak infrastructure as a significant issue, with non-completion of construction, land disputes, and delays in site selection and staffing being prominent problems. The report also emphasizes that many KGBVs lack essential facilities, such as proper heating systems in colder regions like Ladakh.
3. Teacher Shortage and Retention:
A critical shortage of qualified teaching and administrative staff has been noted. Of the 5,035 KGBVs, 2,735 are functional schools with hostels, while 2,300 are standalone hostels. The report highlights that 44% of teachers have less than five years of experience, suggesting high turnover and low retention. Furthermore, 58% of teachers commute long distances, as they do not stay on campus, which impacts their effectiveness.
4. Safety Concerns:
Student safety is a major issue, with 65.6% of girls not responding to safety queries and a third of those who did report feeling unsafe. The report indicates a significant percentage of students feel stressed, anxious, or fearful. Although many KGBVs are equipped with boundary walls and CCTV cameras, issues persist with low boundary heights and inadequate fencing.
5. Operational Recommendations:
The report suggests several improvements, including opening new KGBVs in underserved areas such as aspirational districts and Northeastern states like Mizoram and Nagaland. It also recommends a phased transition towards integrating KGBV students into nearby state schools to create a more inclusive educational environment.
6. Sanitary Provisions:
The report found that 210 KGBVs provided free sanitary napkins and 125 had vending machines, though 107 were functional. This highlights ongoing efforts to address menstrual hygiene, although challenges remain.
The NCERT’s findings underscore the need for immediate and comprehensive reforms in the operation and management of KGBVs. The report calls for a more effective system for the release and utilization of funds, improved infrastructure, enhanced safety measures, and better support for teaching staff. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensuring that KGBVs fulfill their mission of providing quality education and safe living conditions for underprivileged girls across India.
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