Challenges hinder tribal children’s education

Chamarajanagar University Vice-Chancellor M.R. Gangadhar inaugurating a seminar on tribal education in Mysuru on Monday. | Photo Credit: M.A. Sriram

Chamarajanagar University Vice-Chancellor M.R. Gangadhar has said education plays a vital role in the upliftment of tribal communities, but several challenges continue to hinder their academic progress.

Speaking at a seminar on tribal education at the Karnataka State Tribal Research Centre on Monday, Prof. Gangadhar expressed concern over the high dropout rates among tribal children, attributing it to seasonal migration.

“Tribals go in search of work from one place to another, which disrupts their children’s education,” he said.

He said that in some areas, employers emxploit tribal labourers by offering alcohol as an incentive to complete a month’s work in just 15 days, impacting the health and well-being of the community.

He expressed displeasure over the ineffective utilisation of government funds earmarked for tribal welfare. “The lack of will among officials is a major reason for this gap,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor stressed the need for appointing more teachers in schools to bridge the educational divide.

Karnataka State Tribal Research Centre Deputy Director B.S. Prabha said only 58% of tribals are progressing academically.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Research and Extension Centre Director J. Somashekar also addressed the gathering and shared insights on the problems faced by tribal students.

The seminar served as a platform to discuss solutions and policy measures to improve the education of tribal communities.

Published - June 02, 2025 08:14 pm IST