Commerce Stream Closed in 69 Government Schools of Himachal Pradesh, Will Continue Only in Kaza
Shimla, April 3: The Directorate of Higher Education in Himachal Pradesh has made a significant decision to close the commerce stream in 69 government senior secondary schools across the state. This move, which has been prompted by zero enrollment in these faculties, is aimed at optimizing educational resources. However, the commerce stream will continue in the Government Senior Secondary School (Lahaul-Spiti) in Kaza, maintaining a key academic offering in the region.
The order, issued by Dr. Amarjeet K. Sharma, Director of Higher Education, was initially approved on January 16, 2025. It approved the removal of the commerce stream from 69 schools across the state. However, after further deliberation, it was decided that the commerce faculty would remain operational exclusively in the Kaza school, where local demand for the stream still exists.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions, as the closure reflects a broader trend of declining interest in the commerce stream in many of the state’s government-run institutions. Experts believe that the low enrollment numbers and limited student interest in these subjects had already made the commerce stream untenable in several schools, making its discontinuation a practical decision.
Focus on Local Requirements in Kaza
While the closure of the commerce stream in these 69 schools is being seen as a rational response to diminishing interest, the continuation of the stream in Kaza has been framed as a decision based on local needs. In areas like Kaza, where the socio-economic landscape might differ, and where the local population has a consistent demand for commerce education, maintaining the stream will provide better opportunities for students in the region.
This decision is also part of the broader efforts by the state education department to ensure that resources are effectively allocated where they are most needed. By focusing on schools like the one in Kaza, the state aims to cater to the specific educational demands of rural and remote areas, thus enhancing access to relevant courses and career pathways.
Wider Implications for Education in Himachal Pradesh
The closure of the commerce stream in 69 schools raises important questions about the future of secondary education in Himachal Pradesh. With shifting demographics and evolving career interests, the education department is likely to re-evaluate other streams and courses to better align with the needs and aspirations of the student population.
For now, students in other regions of the state who were previously enrolled in the commerce stream may need to consider alternative pathways, including shifting to schools where the commerce faculty is still available or exploring vocational and skill-based education options.
This move by the Directorate of Higher Education is seen as an effort to streamline academic offerings, but it also highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring that education in Himachal Pradesh remains accessible, relevant, and aligned with the changing demands of students.
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