UP News : Govt Firm on Merging Low-Enrolment Schools Despite Opposition

Amid growing opposition, the Uttar Pradesh government is standing firm on its decision to merge government schools with fewer than 50 students, stating that the move is in the best interest of students.

“There are 1.40 lakh government primary and upper primary schools in the state, out of which 29,000 have 50 or fewer students,” said an official, requesting anonymity. “Around 89,000 teachers are currently posted in these low-enrolment schools.”

According to officials, the broader plan is to shift students from small schools to nearby institutions with larger campuses and better facilities, such as libraries, classrooms, and playgrounds.

“The schools they will be shifted to are located just 200 to 500 metres away, so there will be minimal inconvenience to students or teachers,” the official added.

“In larger schools, even if a teacher is absent, others are available to ensure classes aren’t disrupted.”

State’s Stand and Central Alignment

Deepak Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary (Basic Education), issued a letter on June 16 to all district magistrates regarding the implementation of the school merger plan.

He noted that the decision aligns with the Union government’s proposal to consolidate school infrastructure and ensure optimal utilisation of resources. The aim, officials say, is to improve the learning environment without compromising access.

Impact in Lucknow

In Lucknow district alone, over 300 out of 1,618 government primary and upper primary schools are expected to be merged under the plan.

While some stakeholders and local bodies have raised concerns about school identity and accessibility, the government maintains that the merger will improve educational quality, ensure resource efficiency, and enhance the student-teacher ratio in functioning institutions. 

Officials argue that larger campuses can offer students access to libraries, digital learning tools, playgrounds, proper classrooms, and regular mid-day meals more efficiently than scattered, under-resourced schools. A senior officer explained that in low-enrolment schools, a single teacher often handles multiple classes simultaneously, adversely affecting the learning process.