In a stark reflection of the deteriorating state of public education in Madhya Pradesh, more than 5,500 government schools have reported zero admissions in Class 1 this academic year, according to the latest data from the state education department. The findings have raised serious concerns over the quality of education, inadequate infrastructure, and staffing shortages in government-run institutions.
As per NDTV reports, the data released earlier this week shows that over 40% of the state’s 94,039 government schools have fewer than ten students enrolled in the first grade. These alarming statistics highlight the growing disenchantment among parents, many opting for private schools due to poor conditions in public institutions.
Experts point to several factors behind this decline, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of basic amenities, and insufficient teacher recruitment. Many government schools face severe challenges, with leaking roofs, dilapidated classrooms, and overcrowded conditions becoming the norm. The absence of permanent teachers in thousands of schools has further exacerbated the crisis.
Parents, increasingly dissatisfied with public education, have voiced their frustration. "My child’s school doesn’t even have proper toilets, and there’s only one teacher for all grades," said Pramod Kumar, a parent from a village near Bhopal. "How can we expect a good education in such conditions?"
State Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh has acknowledged the severity of the situation and pledged reforms to address the crisis. He emphasised that the government is committed to making necessary improvements but admitted that change would take time.
The opposition has quickly criticised the government’s handling of the situation. Congress spokesperson Swadesh Sharma accused the ruling government of deliberately neglecting public schools to promote private education. “This is a result of the state’s deliberate policies to weaken government institutions and boost private schools, which are often unaffordable for many,” Sharma stated.
Education activists and concerned citizens are now calling for urgent intervention to prevent further decline. As Madhya Pradesh grapples with this deepening education crisis, all eyes are on the state government to deliver on its promises of reform. For many parents and educators, the following steps taken could determine the future of public education in the state.