Transformative educational initiatives in Himachal Pradesh
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Himachal Pradesh, under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, is embarking on transformative initiatives to revolutionize its educational landscape. These efforts underscore the government’s commitment to making quality education accessible to all, resonating with Rabindranath Tagore’s vision that “Education is not a privilege but a basic human right”.
A decision to regularize 18 Gramin Vidya Upasaks as Junior Basic Teachers and the appointment of 1,029 Trained Graduate Teachers (TGT), including 498 from the Arts Faculty, 335 from Non-Medical and 196 from Medical Faculty, marks a significant stride towards addressing the teacher shortage in government schools. This move is complemented by the creation and filling of 486 posts of Lecturer, Physical Education, 157 Principal School Cadre positions and 245 Special Educator posts, enhancing the educational framework for children with special needs.
The government’s commitment to modernizing educational infrastructure is evident wherein provisions have been made for starting smart classrooms, digital facilities and modern libraries across numerous schools and colleges. The designation of 850 educational institutes as ‘Schools of Excellence’ and the introduction of virtual classrooms and hostel facilities further signify the government’s forward-thinking approach to strengthen the infrastructure. Under the Sports to Health Scheme, 110 educational institutions have been equipped with sports mats and equipment, fostering a holistic development environment for students. Additionally, the provision of 40,000 school desks and 29 solar panels enhances the learning experience.
The Financial support initiatives like the Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar Vidyarthi Rin Yojna stand out as a beacon of hope. This scheme provides education loan of upto Rs. 20 lakh to the students pursuing higher education at a nominal one percent interest rate. It is applicable for the families with an annual income of up to Rs. 4 lakh, and till date Rs. 5.25 crore has already been distributed so as to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder access to higher education.
The Government has provided scholarships of Rs. 5419.29 lakh to 81,618 students in 2022-23 under various Scholarship Schemes. Moreover, under the Shri Nivas Ramajun Vidyarthi Digital Device Scheme 11,552 tablets have been distributed to the meritorious students of 10th, 12th classes and colleges. This initiative aims at integrating digital literacy into the students’ curriculum, ensuring they are well-prepared for the future. Additionally, the ICT Smart School initiative has introduced as many as 200 smart and virtual classrooms across various schools and colleges. Government High School, Chhota Shimla, Saloh (Una) and Government Excellence College, Sanjauli have been completely converted into smart schools/colleges, with a budget of about Rs. 8 crore allocated for these projects. Libraries at these institutions have also been modernized to foster an engaging learning environment.
The Government has also introduced a Post Graduate Teachers (PGT) Calendar, instructing Post Graduate Teachers to prepare annual activity plans prioritizing the needs of students. This initiative aims to extend study days from 180 to 210 annually, starting from the 2024-25 academic session. Additionally, Integrated Testing Systems (ITS) have been established in universities to improve student assessments. The government mandates organizing at least two job fairs annually, involving local experts and industrialists to promote employment.
Alongside the merger of schools with low enrollment and the annual transfer of teaching staff demonstrate the government’s strategic approach to resource optimization and educational inclusivity. National anthem has been made mandatory along with physical education periods. Apart from this, the first hand knowledge of life saving activities as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid training has been made mandatory as well.
In pursuit of a brighter future for students, the government has also introduced the Exposure and Enlightening Visit for Teachers. Under this programme in the first phase, approximately 200 teachers have been sent on an International visit to Singapore, while another 200 have travelled to Kerala and other states. This initiative provides them with valuable insights into international educational standards and facilities, enriching their knowledge and expanding future opportunities for students.
These comprehensive reforms and initiatives highlight the state’s dedication to elevating its education sector. By removing financial barriers, modernizing infrastructure and fostering inclusivity, the state is paving the way for a brighter future, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to excel.
