Government schools in Punjab undergo major transformation

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): A comprehensive transformation of government schools has been carried out in Punjab, paving the way for a stronger and more promising future for students. Through wide-ranging reforms in the education sector, a visible improvement has been recorded, particularly in government-run institutions. Among these initiatives, the Schools of Eminence have emerged as a defining milestone in Punjab's education landscape.

These Schools of Eminence, established by the Punjab Government, are now outperforming several private schools in terms of infrastructure, academic environment, and overall student experience. The uniforms worn by students in these schools are comparable in quality and appeal to those of private institutions. Notably, the uniforms have been designed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Bengaluru, and are being provided free of cost to students.

Enrollment in the Schools of Eminence has witnessed a remarkable rise. While the initiative began with 82,000 students, enrollment has now increased to 2 lakh students. A clear shift has been observed, with students opting out of private schools and expressing a preference for admission to these government institutions. The School of Eminence model is being viewed as one that can be replicated not only across Punjab but throughout the country.

The educational philosophy of the Schools of Eminence extends beyond conventional teaching methods. These institutions are founded on state-of-the-art infrastructure, modern pedagogy, and a holistic approach to student development. Emphasis has been placed on nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and strong values, enabling students to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Owing to focused efforts under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann, Punjab is set to become the first state in the country where no school will function without a teacher, ensuring that every school has at least one teacher posted. Alongside this, sustained initiatives are being undertaken to improve the overall condition of government schools. The construction of boundary walls has been expedited to enhance safety and infrastructure.

In another first at the national level, security personnel have been deployed in government schools across Punjab. These schools are equipped with modern facilities, including advanced laboratories, interactive touchscreens, and lifts, thereby creating a safe and technology-enabled learning environment. The Schools of Eminence have been established to provide enhanced education opportunities in both medical and non-medical streams.

To further support students, transportation facilities have been launched for 118 Schools of Eminence and 17 girls' senior secondary schools, resulting in significant benefits for students, particularly those from distant areas.

The commitment to delivering quality education remains ongoing. District-level programmes have been initiated to gather feedback and suggestions from teachers and school principals, ensuring continuous improvement in government schools. Through these sustained efforts, the goal of strengthening public education and expanding opportunities for every child in Punjab continues to be pursued with determination.