Lucknow, Aug. 2 -- The much talked school merger initiative launched by the Uttar Pradesh government seeks to link small, under-resourced schools with nearby institutions and is expected to provide students access to smart classes, ICT labs, better sports facilities and peer learning, said a spokesperson on Friday. The move also aims to improve teacher student ratio, upgrade infrastructure under all 19 Operation Kayakalp parameters, including toilets, drinking water, furniture, digital education, Bal Vatika etc, and promote holistic development. The model, however, remains flexible, with provisions to reopen original schools if enrolment increases-reinforcing the state's commitment to inclusive and quality education, according to a press release released by the state government. The initiative assumes significance in view of the fact that in many government schools across Uttar Pradesh, a single teacher is burdened with teaching multiple classes, affecting both teaching quality and student learning. Several schools also operate with far fewer students than the prescribed limit, spokesperson said. Under this model, schools with enrolments below 50 are linked to nearby, better-equipped institutions-within 1 km for primary and 3 km for upper primary. Pairing is based on three key criteria: low enrolment, close proximity and lack of teachers or ramshackle buildings. The government has clarified that no school is being closed, and no teacher or cook posts are being removed. Instead, schools with up to 50 students are being ensured at least three teachers. Safety audits are underway, with unsafe buildings being dismantled....