KATHMANDU, MAY 5
A total of 52 children staying at a holding centre in Kathmandu have begun attending school from Tuesday, as authorities move to ensure continuity in education for displaced families.
According to the Kathmandu Metropolitan City, the children, currently residing at the Radhashwami Satsang Vyas Ashram, have been enrolled at Jan Vikas Secondary School in Ward-14, located within walking distance. The decision was made after consultations with students and their parents to assess their needs and preferences.
The holding centre currently accommodates 203 individuals from 66 families displaced from riverbank settlements in areas including Thapathali, Gairigaun and Sinamangal. Among them are 61 children, including 52 of school-going age. Four students have recently appeared for the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) and have expressed interest in skill-based training such as computer and tailoring courses.
Officials said arrangements are being planned to provide vocational training based on students' interests.
Among school-age children, guardians of 30 students have expressed willingness to enrol them in hostel facilities for continued education. Of them, 11 are girls and 19 boys, while some parents are yet to give a clear response.
The metropolis has sought support from private school organisations, including Private and Boarding Schools' Organization Nepal, National Private and Boarding Schools' Association Nepal and Higher Institutions and Secondary Schools' Association, to provide residential schooling facilities. Authorities said children above the age of 10 are being prioritised for hostel arrangements.
Acting Mayor Sunita Dangol had earlier urged private school associations to facilitate free education with boarding support for children from genuinely landless families. In response, the associations have expressed commitment to assist in ensuring continued education for affected children.
