Deaf Residential Primary School in Tanahun Nepal Struggles Financially
Buddha Dahal Deaf Residential Primary School in Vyas Municipality-1 Khakauli, Tanahun is a school where deaf students receive an education. The school is located two kilometers away from the Damauli headquarters and caters to students from Tanahun, Lamjung, Gorkha, Syangja, and Nawalparasi.
Despite the government's provision of funds at the rate of Rs 4,000 per student per month, the school faces financial difficulties. The amount has remained the same for fourteen years, which has not kept up with the rising costs of goods. The school has 28 students, including nine females and 19 males, from grades 1 to 5. The students' needs, such as food, clothing, sanitation, television, internet, electricity, and water, must be managed from this amount.
Manijung Basnet, the Chairman of the School Management Committee, has repeatedly drawn the attention of relevant authorities to the matter. Unfortunately, there has been no response or hearing from anywhere. The school's physical facilities are good, but the financial situation of the students is causing problems.
The dormitory building near the school, which was constructed six years ago, can accommodate up to 40 students. However, for the 28 students currently enrolled in the school, the government's funding only covers ten months' worth of expenses. Meat is provided twice a month, and eggs are provided once a week.
The school has five teachers, including the principal, and four support staff. Among them, two are totally deaf, one is partially deaf, and one is an interpreter. One teacher is permanent, and the remaining four are on contract. The support staff members receive a monthly salary of Rs 13,450.
In 2052 BS, the school was run as Khariswara Primary School before it was converted into Gangadatta Primary School in 2071. After the number of students decreased, it was merged into Jaldevi Secondary School. From 2074 Ashad, the school has functioned as a Deaf Primary School.
Despite the Dahal family's donation of land and money, the school still struggles financially. The government needs to pay attention to the school's needs and adjust its funding accordingly. It is crucial to support educational institutions that cater to marginalized communities such as deaf students.
Tanahun