Long-Distance Commuting and School Regularity: Experiences of Rural Students in Dhankuta District

Abstract

Walking to school on foot is the common mode of travel in rural hilly areas of Nepal. In the absence of transportation, students who live farther from school have to commute longer. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of regularity and punctuality among students with long commutes in rural hilly areas of Nepal. Using a basic qualitative study design, data was collected through in-depth interviews with six purposively selected participants. The total number of participants was six students studying at the secondary level of different schools in Dhankuta district. The results showed that long-commute students face the challenge of travelling and household responsibilities to maintain regularity at school. The students’ academic performance was influenced by the physical and psychological constraints caused by a long commute and limited study time. The study has implications for teachers, administrators, and education planners, particularly to ensure learning opportunities for long-commute students.