Arunachal Pradesh government to create school clusters for optimization of educational resources

NEW DELHI: The Government of Arunachal Pradesh is addressing recent concerns over the closure and merger of 600 primary schools with zero or minimal enrollment. This strategic decision aims to optimize educational resources and improve the quality of education across the state.ontrary to prevailing misconceptions, the initiative is part of a comprehensive plan to enhance both the quality of education and its infrastructure in the region.

According to an official press release, the decision is driven by significant population shifts, particularly from remote areas to newly established circle and district headquarters. As enrollment declines in certain schools due to these migrations, merging schools in less populated areas with those in more populous regions aims to improve resource allocation and meet the educational needs of relocated students.

Efficient use of resources

As per the official press release, this merge will result in the creation of inter-village schools serving multiple neighboring communities, enhancing access to education and ensuring a more efficient use of available resources.

Creation of inter-village schools

State minister of education Pasang Dorjee Sona said, “The decision was taken by Govt of Arunachal Pradesh after deliberations and discussion with all the stakeholders. The merger of 336 schools will facilitate the creation of inter-village schools, which can serve multiple neighboring villages. This approach not only improves access to education but also allows for more efficient use of educational resources and infrastructure. 398 closed schools had zero enrolment. In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the creation of school clusters for nearby schools will enhance the efficiency of educational resource utilization. Clustering schools will foster better coordination, shared resources, and collective problem-solving, thereby improving overall educational Schools with zero or minimal enrollment are inefficient and resource-draining.”

Improved facilities

As per the official press release, the new residential and inter-village schools will offer improved facilities, upgraded teaching standards, and enhanced learning environments, ensuring that every student has access to quality education.

Efficient use of human resources

A key element of this initiative is the efficient use of human resources. Currently, some schools with no students still employ two to three teachers, leading to suboptimal deployment of valuable personnel. By merging schools and creating clusters, the government aims to strategically allocate teaching staff to areas where they can be most effective. Additionally, the plan takes into account the distance between schools to ensure equal proximity for all students, guaranteeing that educational opportunities are not compromised.

Budget allocation

Moreover, the recent state budget has allocated ₹2,139 crores to the education sector, designated for constructing new schools, upgrading current infrastructure, and incorporating advanced educational technologies.