The analysis of enrolment data from UDISE+ for the academic years 2022-23 and 2023-24 indicates a significant decline in student enrollment, with a decrease of 61,451 students in government schools over one year.
This drop was noted while comparing data from the two academic years, Greater Kashmir reported.
In light of this concerning trend, the Directorate of Samagra Shiksha J&K has instructed all Chief Education Officers (CEOs) to verify the data and investigate the reasons behind the decline.
An official document highlighted,”554 schools in Jammu and Kashmir experienced a notable reduction in student enrollment, with each school losing more than 50 students compared to the previous year.”
The Directorate has asked the CEOs to review and validate this data and provide insights or reasons for the observed decline.
CEOs are required to submit their reports by July 3, 2024, with authenticated details so that a comprehensive J&K-level report can be finalized promptly.
Immediate attention to this issue is deemed crucial.
This decline has been observed despite annual enrollment drives conducted by the School Education Department (SED) in recent years, which previously reported over one lakh new admissions across various classes.
Despite claims of increased student enrollment in past years, the UDISE+ analysis reveals a decline of over 61,000 students in just one year. Project Director Samagra Shiksha J&K, Rakesh Magotra, stated that the UDISE+ data figures would be verified by the concerned CEOs.
Several factors could be contributing to this trend, if the data is accurate.
One significant reason is the economic pressure brought on by inflation, which has increased the cost of living and essential goods, making it difficult for families to afford educational expenses, even in government schools. Rising costs for school-related expenses, such as uniforms, books, and transportation, can become prohibitive, leading to a decrease in student enrollment.
Additionally, inflation has put a strain on family budgets, forcing some families to prioritize immediate needs like food and shelter over education.
Older children may be required to enter the workforce earlier to help support their families, increasing the opportunity cost of staying in school.
The financial hardships caused by inflation can lead to higher dropout rates as students leave school to work, contributing to the overall decline in enrollment.
Apart from economic pressures, several other factors might be contributing to the decline in student enrollment.
A shift in preference towards private schools due to perceived better quality of education and infrastructure is a significant reason.
Additionally, demographic changes such as migration to urban areas for better opportunities can lead to decreased student populations in certain regions.