Like in some other districts, all primary and lower secondary schools in Bumthang will open only on 15th February, two weeks later than the Education Ministry’s school opening schedule announced last month. As per the general schedule, classes IV to VIII students are to report to the school tomorrow. Meanwhile, with school uniforms and other items not widely available in the market these days, schools are considering various options to address the shortage.
Though classes IV to VIII are set to begin tomorrow, the ministry has allowed respective Dzongkhag education sectors to fix the school reopening dates as per the situation in the districts. In Bumthang, teachers have rejoined school since yesterday and preparations are underway for the new academic year.
“First of all, we have to orient and familiarise teachers of the New Normal Curriculum. Secondly, Bumthang had some COVID-19 positive cases over the recent lockdown period, so we don’t want to reopen schools immediately. Thirdly, Bumthang is a cold place, so we want to begin the new academic year only on the 15th,” said Kinley, the Chief District Education Officer (DEO) in Bumthang.
Meanwhile, markets have only a limited supply of school uniforms and stationery as of now.
“Uniforms might reach Bumthang from stores in Phuentsholing by next week but the stock is limited. Moreover, prices have also gone up this year due to the limited supply,” said Kezang Wangmo, a shopkeeper in Chamkhar.
“Old stocks in our shops are getting cleared, but regarding new ones, we can import only in small quantities. It is challenging as well due to hassles caused by the transhipment system. Regarding high schools dresses, there are no stocks even at Phuentsholing,” said Pema Choden, another shopkeeper in Chamkhar.
However, parents in Bumthang will be given a few months time until supplies become enough in the market.
“I have told the principals not to be strict with uniforms from day one itself. Students can come in any other Gho or Kira for the time being. Likewise, regarding notebooks, students may use one book for two subjects or they can continue using the old books purchased last year,” the chief DEO said.
In Jakar Higher Secondary School, the school administration is considering asking outgoing students to leave their uniforms for new students.
“More than 200 students of class XII will graduate from our school this year, so we are planning to let them leave their dresses for new class IX and XI students who will be joining us from other schools soon,” said Ngawang Jamtsho, the Principal of Jakar Higher Secondary School.
Meanwhile, over 30 students dropped out of school for various reasons in Bumthang last year. This is the highest number recorded so far. Usually, only five to seven students discontinue studies annually in the district. The national school drop out cases have also seen a significant increase last year.
Kipchu, Bumthang
