UNESCO-backed reforms will make state education hub: Rohit Thakur

Education Minister Rohit Thakur on Thursday asserted that Himachal Pradesh is poised to become an education hub and a model for other states through focused leadership, coordinated efforts and sustained collaboration with UNESCO. Chairing the third Steering Committee meeting of the HP FUTURES project, organised by Samagra Shiksha, the minister reviewed progress achieved so far and outlined the roadmap for the next phase of reforms.

Thakur said the partnership with UNESCO reflects the state government’s strong resolve to deliver world-class education despite geographical challenges and frequent natural disasters. The reform initiative will initially be implemented in 12 PM SHRI schools, later expanded to all 99 such schools in the state, and eventually scaled up across Himachal Pradesh.

Launched in 2025, the HP FUTURES project aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023. It aims to build future-ready, inclusive and climate-resilient PM SHRI schools. The minister explained that the project rests on three key pillars — competency-based education, value education through sports and greening education — shifting the focus from rote learning to critical thinking, leadership, teamwork, discipline and environmental awareness. The initiative is also designed to equip students with essential 21st-century skills.

Since the first steering committee meeting in September 2025, extensive consultations have been conducted with civil society organisations, Samagra Shiksha, SCERT and DIETs. Around 200 teachers, including senior secondary physical education lecturers, have been trained under the Value Education through Sports component. Eco-clubs have also been strengthened, leading to greater student participation in sustainability and environmental activities.

Thakur stressed that UNESCO’s recommendations must translate into tangible improvements in classroom teaching, learning outcomes and overall school functioning. He underscored the need for strict and time-bound implementation, assuring close monitoring of progress.

Noting financial constraints, the minister pointed out that only about 3 per cent of the state budget is allocated to the education sector, with a substantial portion going towards salaries and pensions. Despite this, he said, the government remains committed to meaningful and productive reforms.