Thirty-eight determined students from Leeti village in Bageshwar district undertake a perilous 14-kilometer daily journey through dense forests to access science and mathematics education.

Despite the local government high school’s upgrade to intermediate level in 2016-17, science subjects remain unavailable at the Leeti facility. Students must travel to Shama Government Inter College, located an hour’s walk through treacherous terrain, to pursue scientific studies essential for higher education and career aspirations, reported TOI.

The arduous commute exposes young learners to multiple hazards, including encounters with leopards, bears, and wild boars. Monsoon seasons compound these dangers with flooded streams and slippery forest paths, creating life-threatening conditions for the dedicated pupils.

“My dream is to enter the medical field,” said Mukesh, a Class 12 student. “We face difficulties every day, but I walk this path to pursue that dream.” His determination reflects the broader struggle of rural Uttarakhand students seeking quality education.

Class 11 student Pooja Koranga described the harsh realities. “Sometimes we can’t go to school because of heavy rains. Paths become dangerous, and fear of wild animals is always there.”

The challenging conditions have forced some students to abandon science education entirely. Community members express growing concern about educational discontinuation without immediate government intervention.

District Education Officer Gajendra Singh Saun acknowledged the administrative hurdle. “The science stream is currently not sanctioned for the school in Leeti. A proposal has been submitted to the government. Classes will begin once we receive approval.”

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Photo by Ketan Pandey on Unsplash