Education – Vadodara School Enrollment Drive Highlights Focus on Inclusive Learning

Education –   The annual Shala Praveshotsav and Kanya Kelavani Mahotsav was celebrated with enthusiasm at Maharani Shantadevi Primary School in Khodiyar Nagar, Vadodara, on Thursday. The event was led by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and attended by Minister for Women and Child Welfare Manisha Vakil, along with education officials, teachers, students, and parents. The programme marked the beginning of a new academic session while encouraging greater school enrollment and improved learning opportunities for children.

Deputy Chief Minister Calls for Holistic Education

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi stressed the important role teachers play in shaping young minds. He said parents place immense confidence in educators, making it essential for teachers to guide students with commitment, honesty, and care. He encouraged schools to move beyond rote learning by adopting activity-based teaching methods that make classrooms engaging, enjoyable, and free from unnecessary academic pressure.

Sanghavi also appealed to parents and teachers to support children’s overall development by encouraging participation in sports, science, music, arts, and other creative activities alongside regular studies. According to him, such exposure helps children develop confidence, resilience, and the skills needed to become responsible members of society. He further advised parents to nurture habits related to hygiene, cleanliness, and healthy living from an early age.

Strong Enrollment Numbers Reflect Positive Response

Sharing details of the current academic year, Sanghavi said nearly 49,924 students are studying in Hindi, English, and Gujarati medium schools managed by the Vadodara Nagar Prathmik Shikshan Samiti. This year, 7,544 students secured fresh admissions, including 1,354 children who shifted from private institutions to government-operated municipal primary schools.

He described the increase in admissions as a significant achievement for the Education Committee and the district administration. He also appreciated officials and volunteers for conducting extensive door-to-door outreach campaigns that successfully encouraged school dropout children to return to classrooms.

Warm Welcome for New Students

As part of the celebration, newly admitted children entering Anganwadi centres, Balvatika classes, and Standard 1 received a ceremonial welcome from the dignitaries. The initiative aimed to create a positive and encouraging atmosphere for young learners beginning their educational journey.

Officials shared that 4,167 children enrolled in Balvatika during this year’s Shala Praveshotsav. Overall, the programme facilitated 7,544 fresh admissions across different grades, including students transferring from private schools into Standards 1 to 8. Special efforts were also made to ensure the enrollment of Divyang children, reflecting the administration’s focus on inclusive education.

Students Honoured for Excellence

The event also recognised the achievements of meritorious students, Divyang para-athletes, and children who had resumed their education after dropping out. Deputy Chief Minister Sanghavi and other dignitaries felicitated these students and later toured the school campus to review its facilities and interact with teachers and officials.

Vision 2030 Aims to Strengthen School Infrastructure

During the programme, Vadodara Nagar Prathmik Shikshan Samiti Administrative Officer Vipul Bharatiya outlined the Education Committee’s Vision 2030 initiative. He said the plan seeks to build stronger partnerships between schools, industries, and corporate social responsibility organisations operating in Vadodara.

The initiative also proposes expanding modern educational infrastructure, organising regular teacher training seminars, and creating more experiential learning opportunities for students. According to Bharatiya, these measures are intended to support the effective implementation of the National Education Policy while improving the overall quality of education in government schools.