Karwar: A looming crisis threatens 19 Kannada medium aided high schools in the border areas of Karnataka. The education department has issued a notice to cancel their recognition due to a declining student population.
The exodus of students to English medium schools across the state border in Goa has significantly impacted enrollment numbers in these schools. Villages like Majali, Mudageri, Sadashivagad, and Asnoti in Karwar taluk have witnessed a sharp decline in students opting for Kannada medium education.
To maintain the recognition of aided high schools, government regulations mandate a minimum of 30 students per class with a 25% attendance rate. With dwindling student numbers, these schools are on the brink of closure. The education department has warned of suspending salary grants if the situation doesn’t improve.
Local educationists and community leaders are urging the government to intervene and prevent the closure of these schools. They argue that these institutions have been instrumental in providing education to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. A plea has been made to reduce the minimum student requirement for border schools to 15 students per class.
The education department has clarified that the notice is a precautionary measure and the schools can retain their recognition by increasing student enrollment.
The potential closure of these schools raises concerns about the future of Kannada medium education in the region and its impact on the local community.