ITANAGAR: In a bid to preserve the state’s historical and educational legacy, Arunachal Pradesh government is set to designate all government schools established before Independence as “Heritage Schools”.
“I shall announce all government schools established in pre-independence era as heritage schools. Heritage Schools will be given special focus on infrastructure development and will house museums within their premises, showcasing their rich history,” said Chief Minister Pema Khandu, during the Platinum Jubilee celebration of the Government Secondary School in Balek, Pasighat, on Wednesday.
Khandu also directed the deputy director of school education of East Siang district to draft a proposal concerning the upgradation of the Balek Government Secondary School to a higher secondary level.
From a humble beginning of 3-4 schools before Independence, Arunachal Pradesh now boasts over 3,000 government schools.
Despite facing challenges, especially in the educational sector, Khandu highlighted that the state has continually progressed. However, he criticised the previous approach of prioritising quantity over quality in education, which led to numerous schools without the necessary infrastructure or manpower.
Addressing the state’s focus on quality education, Khandu revealed his government’s proactive approach, “We have already closed around 400 schools with zero attendance and are in the process of auditing and mapping every government school to ensure quality.”
The Chief Minister underscored the role of School Management Committees (SMCs) in the development and proper functioning of schools. He urged SMC members to regularly engage with school stakeholders and to report their findings for better fulfilment of educational needs.
As part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, Khandu inaugurated various developmental projects, paid tribute to late Ketem Yomso for donating the school’s land, and urged the school’s alumni to prioritise discussions on quality education.
The event was also graced by MP Tapir Gao, several MLAs, and district administration officials.
