The Punjab government plans to expand this successful model to other regions of the state and throughout the country.
Chandigarh: The AAP government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, came to power in Punjab with a commitment to enhancing the infrastructure and standard of education in government schools. The launch of the 'School of Eminence' initiative has started to show positive results, with 158 students from government schools in Punjab successfully passing the JEE (Main) exam this year.
Under the School of Eminence program, the state government provides special facilities to enhance students' educational experiences, leading to increased excitement among students. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has inaugurated 118 Schools of Eminence across 23 districts in Punjab.
The Punjab government aims to transform government schools into centers of excellence through the 'Schools of Eminence' initiative. These institutions feature world-class infrastructure and seek to provide holistic education for students in grades 9 through 12. Admission to the 9th and 11th grades at these prestigious schools will be determined through a combined aptitude test and a merit-based centralized admission process conducted by SECERT, Punjab.
The 'School of Eminence' initiative has allowed government schools to compete effectively with private institutions, attracting a significant number of new students. Chief Minister Mann praised this initiative, noting that it provides equal educational opportunities for children from diverse backgrounds under one roof.
Features of Schools of Eminence in Punjab
The Schools of Eminence are recognized not only for their impressive architecture but also for their excellent classrooms, modern libraries, science laboratories, and clean facilities. These schools employ innovative teaching methods and adopt a holistic approach, preparing students to meet the challenges of the 21st century while fostering creativity and values.
One of the key features of the Schools of Eminence is the integration of students from various social and economic backgrounds in the same classroom, promoting equality and inclusiveness in education. Chief Minister Mann highlighted that children from judges, district collectors, and rickshaw pullers all study together, contributing to the reduction of social discrimination.
The Punjab government has also introduced modern transportation options for students attending the Schools of Eminence. Free buses have been arranged to transport children from remote areas, saving both parents and children time and money.
The Punjab government plans to expand this successful model to other regions of the state and throughout the country. Chief Minister Mann believes this initiative not only enhances the quality of education but also fosters social equality and inclusiveness. It is a replicable model capable of driving positive change in the education sector.
School of Eminence Admission Process
In the admission process, 75% of seats at each School of Eminence will be reserved for students from government schools, including local body schools in Punjab. The remaining 25% will be available for students enrolled in recognized schools affiliated with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).
If any seats reserved for private school students remain unfilled, those seats will be allocated to students from government and government-aided schools in Punjab, ensuring broader access to quality education.