Empty Classrooms, Tough Choices: Himachal Reshapes Its Schooling Landscape Amid Falling Enrollments

In a move that reflects the changing educational landscape of Himachal Pradesh, the state government has decided to close 103 government schools that currently have no students enrolled. Additionally, 443 schools with ten or fewer students will be merged with nearby institutions in an effort to better utilize resources and address the steady decline in student numbers.

The decision, made during a departmental review led by Education Minister Rohit Thakur, aims to ensure that both students and teachers are placed where they are most needed. The closures include 72 primary, 28 middle, and three high schools—all of which have seen zero enrollment.

To minimize disruption, the government plans to merge low-enrollment schools with others located within a 2 to 5 km radius. This restructuring will also help redistribute over 1,100 surplus teachers to schools currently facing staff shortages.

“There are 203 primary schools with fewer than five students. These will be merged within a 2-km radius, and in areas where no nearby school exists, the range will be extended to 3 km,” said Minister Thakur.

The plan also includes downgrading 92 middle schools and several high schools with very low student numbers. Gender-specific schools will be merged into co-educational institutions to promote inclusivity and efficiency.

However, the changes come with challenges. Some students may have to travel over 5 km to reach their new schools. The government has assured that all affected students will be accommodated appropriately.

In a push for accountability, teachers whose students score below 25% in board exams may face withheld salary increments. A list of such cases is being prepared for review in the next meeting on June 16.