State explores experiential learning in Ladakh

A high-level delegation from Himachal Pradesh, led by Education Minister Rohit Thakur, visited the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL) on Monday to study its pioneering approach to education. The institute, founded by noted environmentalist and social reformer Sonam Wangchuk, is globally recognised for promoting ‘learning by doing’ over traditional classroom-based education.

Advertisement

HIAL’s model focuses on experiential learning, where students engage in hands-on projects such as building mud houses, creating ice stupas and harnessing solar energy. These real-world applications aim to develop problem-solving skills, sustainability awareness and community engagement among students.

According to a government spokesperson, the Himachal Pradesh government plans to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with HIAL. The proposed collaboration would include teacher training programmes and student exchange initiatives, aiming to infuse Himachal’s education system with innovative and region-specific learning methods.

The delegation also visited the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), another transformative educational institution established by Wangchuk. SECMOL emphasises alternative learning that aligns with local culture, sustainability and the environmental realities of the Himalayan region.

Commending Sonam Wangchuk’s visionary work, Minister Thakur said HIAL’s approach could help reduce dropout rates and promote sustainable development in hill states like Himachal Pradesh. “Education needs to be adapted to the unique geographical and cultural context of the Himalayan region. The collaboration with HIAL holds immense promise for reshaping our educational landscape,” he said.

The proposed partnership marks a significant step towards redefining education in mountain regions, blending innovation with tradition to meet both ecological and educational challenges.