Pupils switch to govt school for top results

In what could be seen as a shifting perception of government schools, 66 students from private schools have moved to Government Senior Secondary Smart School, Hazara, for the 2024-25 academic session. With families increasingly seeking quality education without the strain of high fees, the school has emerged as a strong alternative. Known for its 100 per cent academic results and merit-list achievers, it was recently honoured with the ‘Best School Award’ for 2023-24 by the state education department, along with a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh.

When The Tribune team visited the school, it was evident why more students were making the switch. The school, spread over 5 acres, offers a huge playground, seminar hall, modern physics and chemistry labs, an English lab, a sports room, a career counselling room and an education park. With around 550 students, the school has consistently delivered 100 per cent academic results, with many students securing places on merit lists and excelling in competitive exams like JEE and NEET without private coaching.

Principal Kuldip Kaur credited the school’s success to its dedicated staff of 28 teachers and non-teaching members, who not only focus on academics but also ensure holistic student development through seminars, workshops and sports and other activities. She noted that students from far-off villages have also been enrolling after learning about the school’s achievements. “Apart from academics, we focus on making our students all-rounders. Instead of a farewell party, we organise a ‘Paath’ for outgoing students, and all teachers contribute from their pockets to arrange a langar on the campus,” she shared.

She said the school’s active presence on social media has also played a role in its rising popularity. “A recent ‘Instagram reel’ featuring our students performing on a Punjabi song at a private college event went viral, garnering 2.2 million views. Additionally, the school runs its own annual magazine, where students and teachers document their achievements and creative works”, she added.

Kuldip Kaur also highlighted the school’s efforts to support bright students from humble background, with teachers pooling funds to provide books, uniforms and stationery for those in need. “Regular parent-teacher meetings help ensure that students receive a supportive environment at home. I personally take classes to stay connected with students and keep motivating them,” she added.

She said with the Rs 10 lakh cash prize, the school plans to whitewash the campus, install two entry gates, beautify the premises and upgrade the girls’ washroom, further enhancing the school environment.

Beyond Hazara, other government schools honoured with the ‘Best School Award’ 2023-24 include Government Girls High School, Talwan; Government Middle School, Bahmani; and Government Primary School, Khaira Mushtarka; which received Rs 7.5 lakh, Rs 5 lakh and Rs 2.5 lakh, respectively. For 2024-25, Government Senior Secondary School (Kanya), Bara Pind; received Rs 10 lakh, while Government High School, Adhi; and Government Middle School, Lohar Sukha Singh; were awarded Rs 7.5 lakh and Rs 5 lakh, respectively.

DEO Secondary Gurinderjit Kaur lauded the efforts of the school staff and students, stating that Government School Hazara is setting a benchmark for others to follow. She expressed confidence that, with continued support from the education department and administration, more government schools would achieve similar success.