59 schools tagged for KPS integration in Ballari

Ballari: The education department has completed preparations to integrate surrounding schools with Karnataka Public Schools (KPS), which are proposed to be launched in the district from the current academic year to provide education from LKG to PUC under one roof.Official data shows that the district has 228 govt lower primary schools, 229 primary schools (including one aided institution), 402 higher primary schools (including 41 aided institutions), and 443 high schools (including 90 govt and 34 aided institutions) across five taluks. The district also has six existing KPSs.According to education department officials, steps are being taken to establish KPSs under grants from KKRDB, KMERC and the Asian Development Bank to strengthen education infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.DDPI Umadevi said that 59 schools have been identified for integration with KPSs proposed to begin in the current academic year. A total of 59 institutions have been tagged to 39 new KPSs, including 13 Urdu schools and eight PU colleges.She said the govt is yet to take a final decision on the future of govt primary, secondary, and PU colleges proposed for integration, including issues related to continuation, closure and staff transfer. She added that the department is facing uncertainty over implementation.Meanwhile, the proposed integration plan has triggered protests from various organisations across the district over concerns regarding the possible closure of govt schools. Villagers in several areas have also begun efforts to protect schools in their regions amid fears that the 59 identified institutions could eventually be shut down.Of the 59 institutions identified for integration, 16 schools have been tagged to eight KPSs in Siruguppa taluk, nine schools to six KPSs in Ballari West, 20 schools to 15 KPSs in Sandur taluk, and 14 schools to 10 KPSs in Ballari East.Clarifying the status of the proposal, Umadevi said the KPS initiative aims to improve access to quality education and facilities for students in both urban and rural areas. She added that no decision has been taken on the closure or merger of schools, and the matter remains under consideration.