Challenges Faced by Kalahandi's Government Nodal Upper Primary School: A Call for Action

The Government Nodal Upper Primary School in Kalahandi is facing significant challenges, including a lack of infrastructure and teacher shortages. Established in 1964, the school has only four teachers for nine classes, leading to a decline in student enrollment. With only five usable classrooms and inadequate facilities, parents are increasingly withdrawing their children. The headmaster, who also serves as the Assistant Block Education Officer, has acknowledged these issues and is calling for immediate action from the Education Department to improve conditions. This article delves into the pressing needs of the school and the community's response.

By Ambika Singh Nov 10, 2026, 09:29 IST

Educational Struggles in Kalahandi

Karlamunda: Despite numerous government efforts aimed at enhancing educational standards, many schools are still grappling with poor infrastructure and a lack of teachers. The Government Nodal Upper Primary School in the Kalahandi district serves as a stark illustration of these challenges. Founded in 1964, this 62-year-old institution lacks its own land.

With only four teachers available for nine classes, the quality of education is severely compromised, leading many parents to transfer their children to other schools.

Currently, the school has 153 students enrolled this academic year, which includes one in Sishu Vatika, five in Class I, seven in Class II, 13 each in Classes III and IV, 18 in Class V, 37 in Class VI, 26 in Class VII, and 33 in Class VIII. In the previous academic year, 2025-26, the school had 162 students, with a similar distribution across classes.

Gopamani Sahu, the headmaster and one of the four teachers, also serves as the Assistant Block Education Officer (ABEO). His dual responsibilities have hindered both school management and teaching effectiveness. Although the school has 12 classrooms, only five are currently functional, while the rest are deemed unsafe and abandoned.

The kitchen facilities are in poor condition, forcing staff to prepare midday meals in the verandah. The lack of land ownership has significantly hampered the school's growth. Originally established on land donated by a tribal individual, the school has yet to secure ownership, preventing the construction of additional classrooms and leaving students and teachers to deal with inadequate facilities.

While the school does have electricity and drinking water, it lacks proper toilet facilities, compelling students to go outside, which poses particular challenges for girls. Although there is a boundary wall in front, the back of the school remains unfenced, raising safety concerns among parents regarding the learning environment.

Chandrabhanu Sahu, president of the school management committee, along with member Pradeep Kumar Sahu, has called on the Education Department and district authorities to urgently address the land ownership issue, hire more teachers, build additional classrooms, and provide adequate toilet facilities. Headmaster Gopamani Sahu has acknowledged the existing shortages and stated that efforts will be made to resolve these issues promptly.