The Karnataka education department is moving forward with a controversial plan to link approximately 450 government schools in Mysuru district with larger institutions under the Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) and magnet school framework. This restructuring initiative, originally proposed in the state budget, aims to address concerns about low student enrollment and inadequate facilities in smaller schools.
Protests Erupt Over School Merger Fears
Despite government assurances, the proposal has faced significant opposition from activists and student organizations. The All India Democratic Students' Organisation (AIDSO) held a protest demonstration in Varuna constituency limits, which happens to be Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's home turf. Protestors demanded the immediate withdrawal of the merger plan, alleging it would affect far more schools than officially acknowledged.
Activists claim that over 1,600 government schools across Mysuru district face potential merger under the scheme. The protest specifically targeted the proposed closure of Government Senior Primary Schools in Chatnahalli Palya and Chatnahalli village within Varuna hobli.
Government's Rationale and Official Position
Education department officials have strongly denied allegations of planned school closures. They describe the initiative as a cluster school model designed to optimize resource utilization and ensure effective schooling through maintaining minimum student numbers.
According to department sources, smaller government schools with declining student populations will be connected to designated magnet schools located within 1-2 kilometers. Transportation and other necessary facilities will be provided to ensure smooth transition for both students and staff who will be reassigned to main schools.
An education department official explained, "The concept of magnet schools is being misinterpreted. These schools will be linked to nearby schools within 1-2 kilometre distance. This exercise is expected to help the department ensure better student-pupil ratio and improved facilities for children."
Ground Reality and Stakeholder Concerns
Teachers and local communities have expressed apprehension about the implementation process. A district teacher revealed that educators haven't been properly consulted about the new KPS or magnet school concepts. "We want the government to implement the scheme scientifically," the teacher stated, emphasizing the need for taking villagers into confidence to prevent the initiative from backfiring.
AAP leader and activist Malavika Gubbivani voiced concerns that the magnet school concept could lead to widespread government school closures. "The government should not use low enrolment as an excuse to shut down schools. Instead, it should work toward strengthening them," she argued.
The situation in Chatnahalli illustrates the practical challenges. AIDSO district secretary Nitin highlighted that students from poor farming and labor backgrounds would face significant hardship if their local school merges with Varakodu school located more than 6 kilometers away.
In response to the threat, villagers in Chatnahalli Palya and Chatnahalli have formed a Save the Government School Committee with elected office bearers to protect their local educational institutions. The committee includes local residents determined to preserve access to education in their community.
As the education department continues shortlisting magnet schools at block levels, the debate over educational accessibility versus resource optimization continues to intensify in Mysuru district.
