Budgam: Residents of Khanpora village in Khag block of Central Kashmir’s Budgam district have once again raised a pressing demand for the upgradation of their Government Middle School to the High School level, a plea that has gone unaddressed for decades despite the school’s historic significance and proven academic record.
Established in 1957, Government Middle School Khanpora is among the oldest institutions in the district.
Despite newer schools in nearby villages already being upgraded to High Schools, Khanpora’s school continues to function only up to Grade 8. Villagers see this as a stark case of political neglect and uneven development.
“Many schools set up after ours have already been upgraded. What else do we need to prove?” questioned a retired teacher from the village.
The lack of a local High School is particularly hard on girls, who are forced to travel long distances to continue their education, a factor that has led to increased dropout rates. Families are struggling with the physical, financial, and emotional toll of sending children, especially daughters, to far-off institutions.
In addition to academic concerns, the physical condition of the school building has deteriorated significantly. Locals told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the foundation of the structure was damaged in March 2024, rendering it unsafe. With the rainy season underway and the region prone to seismic activity, parents fear a potential tragedy.
“The building could collapse any day. We are terrified for our children,” said Wahid Khan, a concerned resident. Though a Detailed Project Report (DPR) was promised following an official visit earlier this year, no repair work has begun.
The villagers have urged the School Education Department and UT-level authorities to prioritize Khanpora in the next upgradation list and immediately sanction repairs to the school building. They also want similar attention for the Government Middle School in Ara village, which faces comparable neglect. [KNT]
