Innovative reward initiative boosts student performance at Jalandhar govt school

As per the guidelines of the Punjab Education Department, a mega parent-teacher meeting (PTM) was organised on December 20 at Government Primary School, Mandala, Lohian Khas block, Jalandhar district. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from parents and became a good example of effective school-parent collaboration.

A major highlight of the event was a unique and impactful initiative started by teacher Sohan Lal, aimed at motivating students to be more responsible, disciplined and efficient in their studies, especially homework.

Under this initiative, students who consistently completed quality homework were rewarded with steel utensils (plates and bowls) engraved with the student’s and school’s name. This year, 26 students out of 80 were selected and awarded utensils for their excellent homework during the summer break (June holidays) as promised earlier.

Explaining the idea behind the initiative, Sohan Lal shared that during his childhood, schools often rewarded students with utensils, which held emotional and practical value for families.

“I still remember how my mother carefully preserved the utensils I received from school. Even my wife received similar utensils during her school days. I realised that having something useful with one’s own name creates pride, responsibility and lasting motivation,” he said.

Initially, the initiative was taken lightly by many parents and students. However, as rewards were given consistently to deserving students, parents began actively supporting their children’s learning at home. “Over the past two years, we have clearly seen a change. Parents now ensure that homework is done properly, and students are working harder throughout the year,” he added.

Impressed by the effectiveness of this initiative, BPEO Rameshwar Chander generously contributed Rs 2,000 from his personal funds to provide a complete steel utensil set to all selected students.

The BPEO and centre head teacher Karamjit Singh Sandhu (Nahal centre) reviewed the academic progress and co-curricular activities of the students. Parents actively interacted with teachers, showing keen interest in their children’s studies, homework and overall development.