MANDI: A silent revolution is reshaping education in the Sundernagar subdivision of Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district. Once overlooked, government schools are now becoming the preferred choice for parents, thanks to the state government’s visionary initiative to introduce English-medium education alongside modern teaching technologies.
Children in government schools now study in smart classrooms equipped with LED screens and projectors, fostering a vibrant and engaging learning environment. This transformation has been made possible by the state government’s commitment to provide English-medium education from Class 1, fulfilling a long-standing demand of parents.
New face of government schools
At the Government Model Central Primary School in Sundernagar, the change is palpable. Over 185 students, from pre-primary to Class 5, are now immersed in a learning experience that rivals, and often surpasses, private institutions. The school’s head teacher, Pradeep Kumar, highlighted the pride of offering English-medium instruction up to Class 2, with plans for further expansion.
Smart classrooms are operational, enabling students to learn through interactive methods. Beyond academics, the school prioritises students’ health and well-being by offering nutritious meals, including fruits and eggs, every week, alongside daily mid-day meals.
For the academic session 2024–25, all 75 schools in the Sundernagar-1 education block have adopted similar advancements. The use of LED-equipped smart classrooms and English-medium education has become a common feature, reshaping the educational landscape of the region.
Bridging the gap for underprivileged families
This initiative is particularly significant for families who once struggled to afford private schooling. Parents like Neelam Sharma, the SMC president of the Sundernagar school, are witnessing the benefits firsthand. Her son Shivam, an LKG student, and her daughter Tilanjali, in Class 2, are thriving in an environment enriched with smart classroom facilities.
“Government schools have come a long way,” she said. “Thanks to the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s efforts, parents like us now have access to quality English-medium education for our children, free of the financial burden of private school fees.”
Jagdish, another parent, echoed her sentiments. “The government’s decisions have not only improved education standards but also brought pride to our schools. From modern teaching methods to upgraded uniforms, everything feels top-notch.”
Meena Devi, whose daughter studies at the same school, emphasized the comprehensive facilities offered. “These government schools are now better than private ones,” she said. “Smart classrooms and English-medium instruction from LKG onwards have truly transformed education.”
Visionary initiative for holistic growth
This success story is a testament to the Himachal Pradesh government’s commitment to inclusive and quality education. By integrating English-medium instruction with state-of-the-art teaching aids, it has opened new doors for children, particularly those from economically weaker sections.
As the Sundernagar schools stand as a shining example, parents and educators alike are calling this initiative a game-changer. With students not just excelling academically but also receiving well-rounded care, the state government’s efforts are paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
This transformation in government schools is not just about infrastructure or new policies. It is about hope, equality, and the promise of a better future for all children, irrespective of their economic background. As parents express their gratitude and children thrive in this redefined learning environment, Sundernagar’s schools are proving that when vision meets action, change is inevitable — and impactful.
