From Chalkboards to Smartboards

A transformative shift is underway in Punjab’s education system. With the launch of ‘Sikhya Kranti’, the state government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has committed `2,000 crore to revamp 12,000 government schools. This initiative is not only an infrastructure overhaul but a revolutionary step in delivering modern, high-quality education to every student.

The Sikhya Kranti campaign is a clear demonstration of Punjab’s dedication to providing a more equitable and efficient education system. The state is not just focusing on physical infrastructure but also on creating a digital learning environment, improving student welfare, and ensuring the schools meet modernday educational needs.

The transformation started with the inauguration of a School of Eminence in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. This specialized institution aims to offer students state-of-the-art facilities, which can help elevate learning and offer opportunities for peer interaction. CM Mann’s vision is to equip all public schools with similar resources, making them more competitive with private institutions.

According to Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, the ‘Sikhya Kranti’ initiative is the “biggest education transformation in Punjab’s history.” The `2,000 crore investment is spread across various educational reforms, including the construction of 5,399 new classrooms and 7,166 newly built or repaired toilets in schools. These improvements are designed to provide a safe, clean, and comfortable learning environment for all students.

One of the most significant changes is the installation of 2,261 smart classrooms, equipped with Smart Interactive Panels across 1,886 schools in Punjab. These modern classrooms are designed to make lessons more engaging, using technology to enhance the educational experience. Alongside these digital classrooms, 1.16 lakh dual desks and chairs have been provided to ensure every student has a designated place to study. The Sikhya Kranti initiative also prioritizes student safety and security. Over 6,800 schools now have newly constructed boundary walls, covering approximately 1,000 kilometers. Additionally, Punjab has become the first state to appoint campus managers and security guards at schools to enhance safety and ensure smoother day-to-day operations. To further improve access, more than 10,000 students now benefit from the newly introduced school bus services.

The Schools of Eminence (SoE) initiative is another key part of the reform. In the first phase, 118 senior secondary schools will be converted into SoEs, with 14 already operational. These schools cater to students in Classes 9 to 12 and focus on academic excellence and career preparedness. Students in these schools are provided with free uniforms and access to coaching for competitive exams such as NEET, JEE, CLAT, and NIFT, giving them a platform to compete with students from more privileged backgrounds.

In addition to infrastructure development, Punjab has committed to investing over ₹200 crore annually in the maintenance of government schools, ensuring the long-term sustainability of these improvements. More than 350 schools will benefit from the new facilities introduced under this initiative, marking the beginning of a monumental transformation in Punjab’s education landscape. The public is encouraged to visit local schools and experience the changes firsthand, fostering community involvement and strengthening ties between citizens and educational institutions.

With Sikhya Kranti, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann is making a bold statement about the future of public education in Punjab. His approach goes beyond short-term solutions, offering a comprehensive, sustainable model for educational reform that other states could look to emulate.

As the program progresses, Sikhya Kranti promises not only to change the face of Punjab’s schools but also to ensure that students have the tools, skills, and resources to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

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Bhagwant Singh ManneducationPunjabSikhya Kranti