Bengal faces education crisis: 12% dropout rate, over 1,500 schools on verge of closure

Bengal's education system is facing a significant crisis with a reported 12% dropout rate in the 9th and 10th grades, as per the latest government report. This alarming figure places Bengal's dropout rate higher than that of states like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The issue is compounded by the fact that more than 6,000 schools across the state are functioning with just one teacher. Furthermore, over 1,500 schools are on the verge of closure due to a complete lack of student enrollment, highlighting a severe challenge to the state's educational infrastructure.

Several factors have contributed to the sharp rise in the dropout rate. The removal of the Mid-Day Meal scheme for students in grades 9 and 10 is a key factor, as it previously helped retain students by providing essential nutrition. The financial burden on families has also increased, with many students unable to afford the costs associated with continuing their education, such as books, uniforms, and private tuition. For families in economically disadvantaged areas, these costs have become prohibitive, leading many to pull their children out of school.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues. With schools closed for extended periods, a significant number of students did not return to the classroom even after schools reopened. The pandemic disrupted education across the state, leading to higher dropout rates, especially at the secondary level. Despite efforts to re-engage students, the lack of sufficient resources, teacher support, and the psychological toll of the pandemic have made it difficult to prevent students from leaving the education system.

Teacher shortages have been a persistent issue in Bengal’s education sector. More than 6,000 schools are reportedly operating with only one teacher, making it difficult to provide quality education. In many cases, a single teacher is responsible for managing multiple grades and subjects, leading to a compromised learning experience for students. The state has struggled with regular teacher recruitment, and vacancies in schools, especially in rural areas, have remained unfilled for years. This shortage further exacerbates the dropout rate, as students lose interest due to lack of adequate guidance and support.

Enrollment figures at the secondary and higher secondary levels have shown a steady decline over the past decade. The dropout rate has increased not only in general student populations but also among marginalized communities, particularly Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Recent reports indicate that the dropout rate among these communities has more than doubled, raising concerns about the accessibility and equity of education for disadvantaged groups.

The situation is further complicated by the closure of over 1,500 schools in Bengal. These schools are experiencing a sharp decline in enrollment, with some having no students attending at all. The state's educational authorities face a difficult task in trying to prevent the closure of these schools and ensure that students have access to education. The lack of infrastructure, teaching staff, and resources has left many schools unable to function effectively, pushing them closer to permanent closure.

The crisis in Bengal’s education system is a multi-faceted issue that requires immediate attention. Without significant reforms, including the reintroduction of support schemes like Mid-Day Meals, the recruitment of more teachers, and increased financial support for families, the state risks seeing a further decline in its education sector, with long-term consequences for its students.