Mon Jan 27 13:25:21 UTC 2025: ## Students Protest Karnataka Government’s School Merger Plan
**Mysuru, January 27, 2025** – The All India Democratic Students Organisation (AIDSO) staged a protest in Mysuru today against the Karnataka state government’s plan to merge over 4,200 government schools. The proposed merger, part of a “Hub and Spoke” model, targets schools with fewer than 10 students.
AIDSO leaders claim that the move will disproportionately affect underprivileged children who rely on these schools for education. They cite reports indicating that over 6,000 single-teacher schools already exist in Karnataka, along with over 50,000 unfilled teacher positions. Subhash Bettadakoppa, AIDSO State Treasurer, called the plan “unscientific and undemocratic,” urging the government to instead invest in strengthening existing schools and providing necessary facilities.
Kalyan, a member of the AIDSO State Secretariat Board, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for increased funding for education. The AIDSO plans further protests, including the formation of struggle committees in schools and villages to involve parents and students. The organization is committed to preventing the closures and demanding improved educational resources for all.
First Piper 