Himachal Pradesh Launches ‘My School-My Pride’ For Education Transformation

In a progressive move aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020, the state of Himachal Pradesh has unveiled the ambitious ‘My School-My Pride’ campaign under the ‘Apna Vidyalay’ programme. This initiative is set to revolutionize the quality of education in government schools, providing a holistic approach to student growth and development.

Encouraging Stakeholder Participation

The ‘My School-My Pride’ campaign aims to encourage active participation from individuals and organizations to adopt schools and contribute to various aspects of students’ growth. Stakeholders are urged to play a pivotal role in providing career counseling, offering remedial teaching, coaching students for examinations, and engaging in community support services.

Multi-faceted Contributions

Under the ‘Apna Vidyalay’ programme, stakeholders are not only encouraged to contribute their time and expertise but also make monetary contributions for infrastructure development, sponsor events, provide scholarships, and support the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) programme. This multi-faceted approach ensures a comprehensive enhancement of the overall educational environment.

‘Giving Back to Society’ Initiative

A notable aspect of the initiative is the ‘Giving back to society’ initiative, which invites retired teachers, professionals, housewives, and other members of the society to become part of the academic support team. Members of this team will volunteer to teach students without expecting any payment or honorarium. This ensures continuous academic support, particularly during teacher shortages or leaves.

Adoption by Dignitaries and Officers

Dignitaries, Members of Parliament, MLAs, and government officers are actively encouraged to adopt at least one government school as patrons. This involvement includes suggesting improvements and staying informed about students’ progress. Officers from the education department will act as mentors for specific schools, further enhancing the support system.

Online Portal for Transparency

To ensure transparency, accountability, and real-time monitoring of activities, the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) will launch an online portal dedicated to the ‘Apna Vidyalaya’ programme. This digital platform will streamline communication and facilitate efficient coordination among stakeholders.

SAMVAD: A Holistic Approach

Adding to the holistic approach, the ‘systematic adolescent management and value addition dialogue’ (SAMVAD) component will educate school-going adolescents on moral values, drug awareness, nutrition, legal knowledge, and empowerment schemes. This comprehensive education is aimed at nurturing responsible citizens.

Chief Minister’s Vision

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed, “Our government is working with the motto of Vyavastha Parivartan, and Apna Vidyalaya programme aims to foster civic duty, strengthen school vision, and create a sustainable model for educational improvement.” This visionary initiative comes as a beacon of hope for the public education system in Himachal Pradesh, catering to over 55% of students in government schools.

The ‘My School-My Pride’ campaign is expected to bring about a positive transformation, emphasizing community engagement and mentoring for educational enhancement.

Important Questions Related to Exams

1. What is the primary objective of the ‘My School-My Pride’ campaign in Himachal Pradesh?

2. What will the online portal launched by the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) provide for the ‘Apna Vidyalaya’ programme?

3. Which comprehensive education component aims to educate school-going adolescents on moral values, drug awareness, nutrition, legal knowledge, and empowerment schemes?

Kindly share your responses in the comment section.