AP to declare pre-independence government schools as ‘Heritage Schools’ with special infrastructure focus

All government schools in the state that were established before Independence have to be declared as ‘Heritage Schools,’ Pema Khandu, chief minister, Arunachal Pradesh, announced on Wednesday. These schools will receive special attention for infrastructure development, including the addition of a museum within their premises. The decision was prompted by a request from the organisers of the Platinum Jubilee celebration of Government Secondary School, Balek, near Pasighat, who had sought Heritage School status, according to an official statement.

“This is one of the best requests that I have come across. Not only this school but all pre-Independence government schools in the state will be declared as Heritage Schools with a museum showcasing its rich history,” he said.

“This is a historic occasion. The school’s journey of 75 years is a big milestone given the fact that Arunachal Pradesh was born as a union territory in 1972 and became a full-fledged state only in 1987,” Khandu observed.

Commending the school for its 75-year legacy of nurturing numerous accomplished individuals, Khandu expressed heartfelt reverence for those who have departed and extended congratulations to both the current and retired members who have contributed to its success. He emphasised that Arunachal Pradesh has evolved from just three-four schools established before Independence to a remarkable count of over 3,000 government schools spread throughout the state today, the statement mentioned.

“We have focused more on establishing schools after schools without keeping an eye on the quality of education being imparted in these schools,” he said.

Khandu attributed the substantial proliferation of schools lacking adequate infrastructure and staffing in the state to what he referred to as the ‘politics of appeasement.’ He firmly stated that his administration prioritises quality schemes and projects over political appeasement, the statement said.

He also announced that he has already issued directives to the Education Department for the comprehensive mapping of all government-operated schools in the state, enabling the government to closely monitor each school’s status. Emphasizing the vital role of School Management Committees (SMC) in ensuring the effective operation and advancement of schools, he advised SMC members from every school in the state to regularly visit and engage with teachers, students, and parents, subsequently submitting reports to the relevant Deputy Directors of School Education (DDSEs) to address any requirements that may arise, as per the statement.

In addition to this, he inaugurated five development projects and laid the foundations for 13 more initiatives in Pasighat. He also announced the establishment of a new market on land generously donated by local residents, it added.

With inputs from ANI.