Beyond the classroom: Jatin Lal’s school adoption initiative inspires Una students

Una, September 7: For students, a conversation with a senior administrator can often open a window to possibilities beyond the classroom. At Government Senior Secondary School-2, Una, Deputy Commissioner Jatin Lal used such an interaction to encourage students to dream bigger, recognise their strengths and work steadily towards their goals.

The interaction was held under the ‘Apna Vidyalaya–Himachal School Adoption Programme’, through which government officials have adopted schools to strengthen their engagement with students and understand the institutions’ requirements.

Lal urged students to set ambitious goals and pursue them with confidence and perseverance. He advised them to identify their interests and abilities before choosing a career path and reminded them that challenges are a natural part of life. Instead of being discouraged by setbacks, he said, students should face them with determination.

He also stressed the importance of staying away from drugs and using their energy in constructive activities. The message was not limited to academics, with the Deputy Commissioner encouraging students to develop a positive outlook, self-confidence and a clear sense of direction.

The students, in turn, used the interaction to raise questions on careers, education and administration. Lal responded to their queries and encouraged them to develop clarity about their aspirations, trust their abilities and remain focused on their objectives.

The initiative also places emphasis on improving the learning environment. During his visit, Lal directed officials to prepare a proposal for mats and floodlights for the school’s badminton court and assured that the facilities would be provided soon.

The larger programme has a significant footprint in Una. In its first phase, 83 government schools have been brought under the ‘Apna Vidyalaya–Himachal School Adoption Programme’, with administrative and departmental officers taking responsibility for regular engagement with the institutions. Lal himself has adopted four government schools in the district.

The idea goes beyond infrastructure. Regular interaction with students is intended to provide career guidance, personality development, support for competitive examination preparation and encouragement to develop a positive approach towards life. At the same time, schools’ practical needs in areas such as sports, libraries, ICT and other facilities are being identified and addressed.

For students, the value of the initiative may ultimately lie in something less tangible than new facilities—a sense that their aspirations are being heard. Principal Surendra Kaundal said Lal’s regular association with the school had strengthened students’ confidence and given them greater direction regarding their careers and future.

In that sense, the school adoption programme seeks to build a bridge between administration and the classroom, turning official engagement into sustained mentorship and making student aspirations an important part of the development conversation.