NEP driving inclusive learning in Ladakh: L-G Gupta

Ladakh Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Kavinder Gupta on Monday inaugurated the newly upgraded Ladakh Model School, officials said. The school has been upgraded from a primary model school to a middle school under the Samagra Shiksha programme.

Addressing the audience, the L-G said school’s upgrade represents a crucial and long-term investment in the dreams, aspirations and growth of Ladakh’s children. Emphasising that education is a fundamental pillar of a progressive society, he stressed that the UT administration was committed to providing every child with equal access to quality learning in a safe environment.

Highlighting Samagra Shiksha’s role in fostering holistic development beyond traditional textbook learning, L-G Gupta said children in Ibex Colony can now attend uninterrupted schooling up to Class 8 locally, reducing travel burdens, enhancing safety, lowering dropout rates and improving engagement, especially among girls.

Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on education, Gupta highlighted that reforms like the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) and Samagra Shiksha are making quality education accessible and inclusive, even in regions with geographic challenges such as Ladakh. “Education is not just a system, it is a nation’s most powerful tool for transformation,” he said.

The L-G emphasised that the UT administration is committed to ensuring that harsh weather, long distances and resource constraints do not hinder any child’s educational journey. He said efforts are on to strengthen school infrastructure, including buildings, classrooms, drinking water, sanitation, libraries, sports amenities and digital learning tools. “Every child in Ladakh must have the opportunity to learn, to grow and to dream big,” he said.

The L-G highlighted the need to extend education beyond academics, emphasising that sports, culture, arts, values and life skills must be included in the teaching curriculum.

He said Ladakh’s rich heritage, discipline and spirit of adventure bestow a unique identity on its children. “The administration aims to blend modern education with local cultural values, cultivating confident, ethical and responsible citizens,” Gupta said.

The L-G acknowledged the pivotal role of teachers, encouraging them to educate with dedication, compassion, innovation and an emphasis on nurturing curiosity.

He called on parents to participate in their children’s education by ensuring regular attendance, attention and involvement in school activities. He said holistic growth requires collaboration between schools and families.

In his concluding remarks, Gupta expressed gratitude to the officials, teachers and community members for their collective dedication in realising this milestone.