Uttar Pradesh to Merge 233 Under-Enrolled Schools in Prayagraj to Improve Education Quality
In a significant move to enhance the efficiency of school resources and improve educational outcomes, the Uttar Pradesh government has initiated the process of merging primary and upper primary schools in the Prayagraj district with fewer than 50 students. As per directives from the state government, a total of 233 schools have been identified for this merger. The plan is part of a broader strategy aimed at optimizing resources, enhancing infrastructure utilization, and ensuring quality education for every student.
Why the Merger? Addressing the Challenges of Low Enrolment
The Basic Education Department in Prayagraj began compiling data on schools with extremely low enrolment after the state government's directive. The goal is to make better use of available resources such as:
- School buildings and classrooms
- Smart class technology and ICT equipment
- Educational materials and trained faculty
By merging these smaller schools with nearby institutions, the government aims to achieve more efficient use of infrastructure, improved teacher availability, and better communication with parents, ultimately resulting in higher enrolment and lower dropout rates.
Additional Chief Secretary of the Basic Education Department, Deepak Kumar, has issued detailed guidelines to district magistrates across the state to facilitate the smooth execution of the merger process.
Resistance from Parents: Concerns on Distance and Accessibility
Although the plan is backed by administrative intent and logistical reasoning, it has faced resistance from parents, particularly in rural and remote blocks. Teachers have been assigned to conduct meetings and hold discussions with families to explain the benefits of the merger. However, many parents are hesitant due to concerns such as:
- Increased travel distance to the new schools
- Crossing highways or other unsafe routes
- Emotional attachment to neighborhood schools
Despite these objections, authorities believe that the long-term educational benefits will outweigh the temporary inconvenience caused by the shift.
Shankargarh Tops the List of Under-Enrolled Schools
Among the 233 schools listed for merger, the Shankargarh block has the highest number, with 33 schools falling under the category of those with fewer than 50 enrolled students. Here's a breakdown of the number of such schools in other blocks:
- Koraon – 21 schools
- City area – 17 schools
- Saidabad – 17 schools
- Jasra – 19 schools
- Karchana – 17 schools
- Holagarh – 11 schools
- Pratappur – 10 schools
- Kaundhiara – 10 schools
- Mauaima – 9 schools
- Soraon – 7 schools
- Uruwa – 6 schools
- Phoolpur – 6 schools
- Sahason – 6 schools
- Shringaverpur – 5 schools
- Bahadurpur – 5 schools
- Baharia – 5 schools
- Bhagwatpur – 5 schools
- Manda – 4 schools
- Dhanupur – 3 schools
- Handia – 3 schools
- Kaudihar (I) – 1 school
- Kaundhiara (II) – 2 schools
- Meja – 11 schools
This geographic spread highlights how the problem of low enrolment is not limited to one area but is widespread across the district.
Strategic Intent: What the Government Aims to Achieve
The merger plan is aligned with broader educational reforms under the state and national framework. The core objectives include:
- Better student-teacher ratio
- Consolidated use of modern teaching aids and technology
- Improved monitoring and management
- Encouragement of community involvement in school development
By pooling resources, the government believes schools will be better equipped to deliver quality learning experiences. The move is also expected to curb duplication of infrastructure and ensure more equitable allocation of teaching staff.
Next Steps: Execution and Monitoring
The Prayagraj Basic Education Department is currently:
- Finalizing the list of merger schools block-wise
- Coordinating with local education officials and village heads
- Preparing transportation and safety plans for students where necessary
- Continuing community outreach to address parental concerns
Detailed instructions are being followed under the supervision of the district magistrates, as per the directives of Additional Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar.
Conclusion: A Difficult but Necessary Transition
While the path to merging these 233 under-enrolled schools in Prayagraj may be fraught with challenges, especially in gaining community support, the state government remains committed to long-term educational improvement. The initiative has the potential to transform low-performing schools into vibrant centers of learning, equipped with improved facilities, trained staff, and enhanced student engagement.
In the coming months, the success of this initiative will depend on transparent implementation, consistent communication with stakeholders, and ensuring student safety and convenience. If executed effectively, it could serve as a model for other districts facing similar issues, paving the way for a more efficient and impactful education system in Uttar Pradesh.
