Srinagar, October 27,2025- In a major step toward transforming public education, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday inaugurated the DREAM School Project at Government Girls Higher Secondary School , Kothibagh, Srinagar. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Faizal & Shabana Foundation, marks a new era of digital, research-oriented, and modern learning in Jammu and Kashmir.
The project, initiated in 2023, aims to establish government schools that match global education standards — integrating cutting-edge infrastructure, STEM innovation, and holistic learning models to unlock the potential of every child in the Union Territory.
A Vision for Future-Ready Education
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, LG Manoj Sinha said the DREAM School Project stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to ensure that every child in Jammu and Kashmir has access to world-class education and equal learning opportunities.
“Government schools will lead the future of India’s learning reforms,” the Lieutenant Governor said. “We are creating progressive environments that inspire young minds to dream big and achieve more.”
He added that the project embodies the government’s mission to nurture creativity, critical thinking, and innovation among students through advanced digital tools and experiential learning systems.
Cutting-Edge Facilities for Holistic Development
Under the DREAM School initiative, GGHSS Kothibagh now features:
- A Robotics Lab and STEM Innovation Centre for hands-on learning.
- Smart Classrooms with digital teaching platforms.
- Advanced digital infrastructure with high-speed connectivity.
- Professional development programs for teachers to adopt global pedagogical standards.
- Holistic learning spaces designed to promote emotional intelligence, leadership, and teamwork.
Officials said the initiative reflects a student-centric vision, ensuring that government schools in Jammu and Kashmir are equipped to prepare children for the challenges of the 21st-century global economy.
Partnership for Educational Excellence
The Faizal & Shabana Foundation, known for its work in educational innovation and social impact, partnered with the J&K Government to conceptualise and implement the DREAM School Project.
The foundation’s representatives highlighted that the project aims to bridge the digital and innovation gap between government and private schools. The model school at Kothibagh will serve as a prototype for similar transformations across other districts in Jammu and Kashmir.
“The idea is to empower every child — regardless of background — with access to a world-class learning experience,” said a spokesperson from the foundation. “Our collaboration with the J&K administration is a reflection of shared values — education, equity, and empowerment.”
Empowering Teachers, Inspiring Students
As part of the project, teachers will undergo regular training and mentorship programs to integrate AI-based learning tools, robotics education, and STEM pedagogy into their classrooms.
LG Sinha emphasised the importance of investing in teachers’ professional growth as a cornerstone of education reform.
“An empowered teacher creates empowered students,” he remarked. “We are equipping educators with the knowledge and resources they need to guide the next generation toward innovation and excellence.”
Transforming Government Schools Across J&K
The DREAM School Project at Kothibagh is part of a larger transformation initiative under the J&K administration’s education reform plan. The goal is to upgrade all government schools with modern digital tools, improved infrastructure, and competency-based learning systems.
Officials confirmed that the project aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasising experiential learning, skill development, and inclusive education.
The LG noted that such initiatives are crucial to bridging regional and socio-economic divides in education, ensuring that every child — from Srinagar to remote districts — has the opportunity to thrive.
Education as the Foundation of J&K’s Growth
The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed the administration’s focus on education as the foundation of Jammu and Kashmir’s future. Under his leadership, the UT has witnessed significant progress in digital literacy, school modernisation, and student welfare programs.
Recent government initiatives include:
- The Smart Schools Mission in collaboration with community and corporate partners.
- Digital learning campaigns to promote e-classrooms and remote education.
- Skill enhancement programs for school and college students to improve employability.
“We are not just building schools; we are building futures,” LG Sinha said. “Our goal is to create learners who are curious, compassionate, and capable of leading India’s knowledge economy.”
Community Response and Future Plans
The inauguration ceremony witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, education officials, and community members. Students of GGHSS Kothibagh presented innovative STEM projects, robotics demonstrations, and digital art displays — reflecting the transformative power of the DREAM initiative.
The administration plans to replicate the model across 20 districts, turning more government schools into centres of innovation and creativity.
Officials also confirmed that the DREAM School framework will be integrated with career counselling programs, AI-driven learning analytics, and skill-based curricula in the next phase.
A New Dawn in Education
The inauguration of the DREAM School Project marks a turning point for education in Jammu and Kashmir. It underscores the government’s resolve to ensure that public education matches international benchmarks — transforming classrooms into spaces of innovation, discovery, and ambition.
As LG Manoj Sinha aptly said,
“When we empower our children to dream, we empower our nation to grow. The DREAM School Project is a reflection of that vision — of hope, equality, and excellence.”
With the successful launch at GGHSS Kothibagh, the administration is confident that the project will set a new benchmark in public schooling, inspiring similar transformations across India.
