Less than 25 students in 216 schools: Pathanamthitta reflects Kerala’s worsening education crisis

Pathanamthitta: Kerala’s school enrolment figures have seen a dramatic decline post-Covid, with 1,197 schools across the state now averaging fewer than 25 students per institution, according to the latest Economic Review tabled in the Kerala Assembly for 2023-24. Among these, 452 are government-run schools. The situation has been attributed to various factors, including the saturation of schools in close proximity, a declining birth rate, and reduced enrolment rates. Furthermore, a significant number of students who had initially returned to public schools post-Covid are now opting for unaided private education.

While schools with fewer than 25 students are widespread, the highest concentration is found in Pathanamthitta district, which accounts for 216 such schools, including 64 government and 152 aided institutions. The numbers in Kottayam and Kannur follow closely, with 168 and 148 schools, respectively.

The case of Pathanamthitta

The post-Covid academic year saw a rise in enrolment across the state, with Pathanamthitta experiencing a similar trend. Teachers suggest that government schools’ success in offering online classes, exams, and other educational support during the pandemic helped draw students back to public institutions.

Pathanamthitta is one of the districts with the highest number of expatriates in Kerala. Many families who settled abroad after their children completed their studies returned home due to the pandemic. As they were uncertain about their ability to return in subsequent years, many of these families enrolled their children in public schools in the district. However, as circumstances changed, many expatriates have since returned abroad, leading to a decline in enrolment.

Curricular and extra-curricular programmes need improvement

Simply introducing smart classes or updating textbooks every year will not suffice to attract students, according to parents and educators. Most parents now prefer English-medium schools for their children. Education methods must evolve to meet contemporary needs, and teacher training, along with job-oriented education, has become increasingly important. Moreover, parents often express concern over the lack of proper playgrounds in schools. They believe their children should receive the best education, which has further influenced the choice to seek alternative schools. The increasing number of schools in the same area has also contributed to the decrease in student numbers.