Schools in Manang filled with children of migrant workers

By Yadu Prasad Bhatta,Manang, Nov. 9: Manang, the least populated district, has recently seen a surge of students from outside the district.

Nearly all educational institutions in Manang are presently occupied by students from other districts. 

According to school teachers, these students have not come because of the educational infrastructure or other facilities, but rather because they wish to study and work together in Manang.

Most of the schools in Manang that offer residential facilities are filled with children of people who have migrated from other districts in search of work. 

On the other hand, most residents of Manang, especially those involved in business, have sent their children to cities such as Pokhara, Kathmandu, and Chitwan for education. Even many local representatives have enrolled their children in urban schools.

There are 27 schools across the district offering education from early childhood development classes to higher secondary levels.

According to Dhruba Prasad Koirala, Chief of the Education Development and Coordination Unit, many locals are not interested in enrolling their children in local schools.

Prakash Jyoti Higher Secondary School, located in Naso Rural Municipality, has the largest number of students. There are 11 schools at the local level. 

However, at least 75 students from 10 different districts outside Manang have enrolled at Prakash Jyoti School, stated Principal Padam Raj Panthi.

According to Principal Panthi, 37 students are from Lamjung, 16 from Rukum, 11 from Gorkha, four from Dang, two from Dhading, and one each from Kaski, Rupandehi, Nawalparasi, Rolpa, and Sankhuwasabha. 

Principal Panthi added that many students wish to attend Prakash Jyoti School because it provides several facilities, including Rs 2,000 per month.w