Educational Experiences of Slum and Migrant Children in Government Schools of Kathmandu Valley

Abstract

Access to quality education remains a significant challenge for children living in slums and those migrating from Nepal’s interior regions. This study comprehensively examines the complex educational, social, and economic obstacles faced by students attending government/public schools in slum areas and children from low-income urban families. Employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, including structured interviews and questionnaires, data were collected from 50 students responding to 21 thoughtfully prepared questions. Additionally, nine students were interviewed in-depth to further explore socio-economic and educational challenges. The findings reveal critical issues; notably, 42.1% of children cited a lack of management and discipline within public schools hindering their pursuit of quality education, with financial constraints affecting 44.7% of the student population. Encouragingly, 77.6% of students reported no instances of discrimination within their school environment. The surveyed respondents encompassed an age group spanning from 13 to 18 years. This research underscores the urgency of addressing educational disparities to ensure a brighter future for marginalized youth in Nepal.