Govt schools will lead India’s learning reforms: L-G Sinha

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday inaugurated the DREAM School Project in Srinagar, asserting that government schools will spearhead India’s education and learning reforms in the coming years.

Sinha said that the introduction of Robotics Labs, STEM innovation centres, smart classrooms, advanced digital infrastructure, professional teacher development programmes, and holistic learning spaces would help unlock the full potential of every child in the Union Territory.

The Developing Resilient Education and Aspirational Mindsets (DREAM) project is a collaboration between the Jammu and Kashmir Government and the Faizal and Shabana Foundation, initiated through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in March 2023.

Under the agreement, the Faizal and Shabana Foundation has constructed a state-of-the-art middle school block featuring facilities such as a Robotics and STEM Lab, air-conditioned classrooms, and a dedicated lunchroom with a separate kitchen and storeroom.

The DREAM School Project aims to transform public education in Jammu and Kashmir, drawing inspiration from the Nadakkavu School model in Kerala — ranked among India’s top three government day schools for the past five years.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Lt Governor said the project reflected the administration’s commitment to providing globally benchmarked education and a progressive learning environment that empowers children to dream big.

“Our goal is to ensure that every school in Jammu and Kashmir becomes a hub of innovation, inclusion, and inspiration — nurturing the youth who will shape the nation’s future,” Sinha said.

He added that the administration was dedicated to fostering a nurturing and empowering atmosphere that ensures holistic development — encompassing social, emotional, and intellectual growth — to mould students into responsible citizens of the future.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor gave five mantras to the students: first, find inspiration; secondly, think big; thirdly, dream big; fourthly, take risks during the educational journey with courage; and fifth, act with compassion and sensitivity.

He also urged educational institutions and teachers to design a system that rewards creativity, curiosity, innovation, and critical thinking. “Our education system must balance creativity with competition — where classroom tests are based on learning, originality, and experimentation; where creativity and individuality are valued more than marks and medals,” he said.