SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday inaugurated the DREAM School Project at Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Kothibagh, Srinagar, asserting that government schools will lead the future of India’s learning reforms through innovation, inclusivity, and technology-driven education.
The project—Developing Resilient Education and Aspirational Mindsets (DREAM)—was initiated in 2023 in collaboration with the Faizal and Shabana Foundation. It aims to transform the public education system in Jammu and Kashmir by integrating robotics labs, STEM innovation centres, smart classrooms, advanced digital infrastructure, and professional development opportunities for teachers.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Lieutenant Governor said, “Government schools will lead the future of India’s learning reforms. Robotics labs, STEM innovation centres, smart classrooms, advanced digital infrastructure, professional development for teachers, and holistic learning spaces will unlock the potential of every child.”
He described the initiative as a testament to the administration’s commitment to provide global standard education and a progressive environment for students to “aspire and dream big.”
Highlighting the government’s broader education policy, Sinha said, “Over the past few years, we have invested deeply in transforming our education ecosystem to make Jammu and Kashmir an ‘Oasis of Talent’. Our youth are our greatest strength, and their potential will drive our vision for the future.”
The Lieutenant Governor underscored that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Territory administration has focused on equal access to education, improved infrastructure, inclusivity, and modern skill alignment.
As part of his address, Sinha shared five “mantras” with students—find inspiration, think big, dream big, take risks with courage, and act with compassion and sensitivity. He urged teachers and educational institutions to foster systems that reward creativity, critical thinking, and originality over rote learning and grades.
The Faizal and Shabana Foundation constructed a new middle school block equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including robotics and STEM labs, air-conditioned classrooms, and a dedicated lunchroom. The project follows the model of the Nadakkavu Government School in Kerala, ranked among India’s top three government day schools.
The event was attended by Faizal E. Kottikollon, Founder of the Faizal and Shabana Foundation and Chairman of the UAE India Business Council–UAE Chapter (UIBC–UC); Shabana Faizal, Co-Founder; senior education department officials; former Indian Ambassador to the UAE Sunjay Sudhir; and hundreds of teachers and students.
