On Teachers’ Day 2022, PM Narendra Modi declared that 14,500 schools across the country will be developed and upgraded under the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) Yojana. He made this statement while interacting with the winners of the National Awards to Teachers.
“Today, on #TeachersDay I am glad to announce a new initiative - the development and upgradation of 14,500 schools across India under the Pradhan Mantri Schools For Rising India (PM-SHRI) Yojana. These will become model schools which will encapsulate the full spirit of NEP,” PM Modi said in a tweet.
Modi further added, “The PM-SHRI schools will have a modern, transformational and holistic method of imparting education. Emphasis will be on a discovery-oriented, learning-centric way of teaching. The focus will also be on modern infra including the latest technology, smart classrooms, sports and more.”
According to PM Modi, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has completely altered the education sector in recent years. He said, "I am certain that the PM-SHRI schools will further benefit lakhs of students across India in the spirit of NEP.”
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office read, "PM SHRI Schools will showcase all components of the National Education Policy 2020 and act as exemplar schools and also offer mentorship to other schools in their vicinity. The aim of these schools will not only be qualitative teaching, learning and cognitive development but also creating holistic and well-rounded individuals equipped with key 21st-century skills."
The pedagogy adopted in these schools will be more experiential, holistic, integrated, play/toy-based (particularly, in the foundational years) inquiry-driven, and discovery-oriented. "Assessment at all levels will be based on conceptual understanding and application of knowledge to real-life situations and will be competency-based," it said. Further explaining the amenities, PMO said, "These schools will be equipped with modern infrastructure including labs, smart classrooms, libraries, sports equipment, art room etc. which is inclusive and accessible. These schools shall also be developed as green schools with water conservation, waste recycling, energy-efficient infrastructure and integration of organic lifestyle in the curriculum."
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailed the initiative as a significant step towards implementing the vision of NEP and building India into a knowledgeable society. "PM Shri Schools will also offer leadership to other schools in the region for making the learning environment more joyful as well as improving educational outcomes," said Pradhan.