Declining Enrollment in Technical Stream Raises Concerns in Dolakha Schools

Dolakha, September 18, 2023 – Four secondary schools in Dolakha, Nepal, operating under the Technical Stream, have reported significant issues concerning the teaching of Plant Science. The problem stems from a lack of interest by relevant authorities, dwindling student enrollment, and an absence of alternative funding sources. The situation threatens the future of this critical field of study designed to prepare students with valuable technical skills and knowledge in agriculture.

Spiraling Downward: A Close Look at Enrollment Numbers

Deepak Khadka, the principal of Lapilang Secondary School, shared that the Plant Science Technical Stream was introduced three years ago with the endorsement of CTEVT (Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training). Initially designed for 40 students, only 25 enrolled and successfully completed the first year. In its second year, the numbers dwindled to just 11 students, and in the third year, a mere six individuals enrolled. Notably, there have been no new enrollments in the current academic year.

Similarly, Jiri Technical Institute has reported zero enrollments for the 18-month training offered. Other schools, like Golmeshwar in Tamakoshi and Suspa Kshamavati Secondary School in Bhimeshwar Municipality, have faced a similar predicament.

Incentives Fail to Attract Students

Though free hostel facilities are provided for female students and affordable rent options are available for others, these incentives have failed to attract new enrollments. "Despite these facilities, teaching in this stream has been discontinued due to lack of student interest," said Khadka.

Shailung's Silver Lining: Free Education and 15 Enrollments

In contrast, Sharda Secondary School in Shailung Rural Municipality has seen 15 students enroll, presumably due to its free education offering. Netra Bahadur Thapalia, the former headmaster, warned that if the number doesn't reach the quota of 21, the school could lose its grant from CTEVT.

Local Authority Speaks

Taranath Choulagai, spokesperson of Bhimeshwar Municipality, emphasized the need for community support to sustain the Technical Stream in the district. "We have been urging everyone to protect and prioritize the technical stream. It's challenging to sustain, but the need for technical education in agriculture is urgent," he stated.

An Urgent Call for Action

With the decreasing interest in agriculture-based technical education, there's a looming threat not just to these educational institutions but also to the agriculture sector in the region. Authorities, communities, and educators need to come together to reevaluate and revitalize these essential programs before it's too late.