Gujarat CM launches Shala Praveshotsav 24th edition in Vadnagar, enrolls 390 students
Gandhinagar, June 23
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the statewide 24th edition of Shala Praveshotsav from BN High School in Vadnagar, Mehsana, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi received his school education.
During this programme, as part of this campaign, around 390 children were enrolled in schools.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister said that the Prime Minister's life is an inspiring example of how a student from an ordinary family can achieve great success through hard work, determination, and education. He added that under the Prime Minister's leadership, new opportunities have opened up in the fields of education, skill development, and growth.
Speaking about the outcomes of Shala Praveshotsav, the Chief Minister said, "In 2003, the then Chief Minister Narendra Modi launched the significant campaigns of Shala Praveshotsav and Kanya Kelavani. As a result, a remarkable transformation has taken place in the State's education sector. At one time, a large number of children used to discontinue their studies midway; however, due to sustained efforts and collective responsibility towards education, school enrollment has now reached 100 percent and the dropout ratio has declined to less than 1 per cent."
The Chief Minister congratulated teachers for identifying and re-enrolling 24 children from schools in Vadnagar who had discontinued their education for various reasons. "As a result of technology and the continuous efforts of teachers, children who are out of school are being identified and reconnected with education."
"If a student remains absent even for a day or two, teachers contact parents and express concern about the child's absence." The Chief Minister also appealed that parents share equal responsibility with the Government in ensuring that every child completes school education.
The Chief Minister stated that the State Government has implemented schemes such as 'Namo Lakshmi' and 'Namo Saraswati' to promote girls' education, and these initiatives have produced positive results within a short period. Under the Namo Lakshmi Scheme, girls studying in Standards 9 to 12 receive assistance of Rs 50,000, while under the Namo Saraswati Scheme, students pursuing science education receive financial incentive assistance of Rs 25,000.
Guiding students, the Chief Minister said that they should limit the use of mobile phones and television and focus on their studies. He further added that success in life can be achieved through proper time management, respect for parents, and dedication towards education.
A special feature of the programme was that all arrangements, including stage management, welcoming dignitaries, and delivering the vote of thanks, were handled entirely by the school students. The Chief Minister appreciated the students for demonstrating these skills.
During the programme, the Chief Minister honoured bright students and those who had excelled in the fields of arts and sports.
As part of their social responsibility alongside education, all students present took a pledge to follow traffic rules. At the conclusion of the programme, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel planted a tree in the school premises and conveyed the message of environmental conservation. He also held a meeting with members of the School Management Committee and the governing body to discuss educational quality.
This event was attended by MLA Kiritbhai Patel, Vadnagar Municipality President Mitika Shah, Taluka Panchayat President Kanuji Thakor, leaders Shri Girishbhai Rajgor, Bharatbhai Dangar, District Collector Shri SK Prajapati, District Development Officer Anchu Wilson, the school Principal, teachers, parents, and a large number of students.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a teacher in Gujarat, I can say this campaign has truly transformed our education system. The way teachers now track absent students and contact parents within a day or two is commendable. And having students handle the entire event - from stage management to vote of thanks - that's real skill development! 👏
Good initiative but let's not get carried away with political messaging. The focus should be on the children, not linking everything to the PM's childhood. Also, telling students to "limit mobile phones and TV" sounds nice but in today's digital age, we need to teach responsible usage, not just restriction. Practical digital literacy is more important.
Impressive numbers from Gujarat! In my state we're still struggling with dropouts after class 8. The 'Namo Saraswati' scheme for science students is particularly smart - we need more engineers and scientists. The tree planting and traffic pledge show holistic development too. Hope other states replicate this model.
Proud moment for Vadnagar! Seeing 24 dropouts re-enrolled is heartwarming - every child deserves education. The CM's appeal for shared responsibility between government and parents is crucial. However, I hope the financial incentives reach the intended beneficiaries without middlemen. Also, more vocational training alongside academics would help rural students.
The 100% enrollment target is admirable, but what about the quality of that education? We need better infrastructure, trained teachers, and modern curriculum. The 'Namo' schemes are good but Rs 50,000 for 9
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