Jhimruk Rural Municipality has implemented a policy providing free education up to bachelor's level, leading to a surge in student enrollment at Gaumukhi Campus located in Machchhima, Jhimruk Rural Municipality-5.
Last year, Gaumukhi Campus witnessed an initial enrollment of 53 students in its first year. However, this year, the number has soared to 145, marking a substantial increase. This information was shared by the Campus Chief.
Under the approved annual program for the fiscal year 2080/81, Jhimruk Rural Municipality has committed to offering tuition fee exemptions to students studying at Gaumukhi Campus. This proactive measure has effectively attracted students to pursue their bachelor's degrees at the campus.
The Campus Chief outlined the fee structure, indicating that students were previously required to pay Rs. 3,500 in the first year, Rs. 3,000 in the second and third years, and Rs. 2,500 in the fourth year, along with a monthly fee of Rs. 800. Despite administrative and practical exam fees, students now benefit from complete waivers on tuition and education fees, providing substantial relief.
Gaumukhi Campus, established in 2063 BS, primarily focuses on education and management courses. Currently, there are 270 students enrolled at the campus, with a noteworthy emphasis on facilitating women's access to higher education. Among the 145 students enrolled in the first year, 130 are female students, underscoring the success of the initiative in promoting gender equality in education.
Residents from the area have also stressed the profound effect of tuition-free education, especially in communities with limited resources, noting how it has notably facilitated students' access to education in the region.
Jhimruk Rural Municipality allocated a budget of Rs. 25 lakh for free education up to the bachelor's level in the previous fiscal year, as confirmed by the Municipality Chairman. Despite existing annual grants to the campus, this year's budget allocation was specifically tailored to support the plan of providing free education.
Overall, the initiative spearheaded by Jhimruk Rural Municipality has not only facilitated increased enrollment at Gaumukhi Campus but has also underscored the municipality's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering inclusive development within the community.
