Students from 43 PM Shri Schools converge for State convention

PAKYONG, (IPR): The State-level PM SHRI Convention, spanning two days, commenced Tuesday at the conference hall of SICUN, Assam Lingzey, organised by the State Nodal Office of the PM SHRI Education department. The inaugural session was honoured by the presence of Raju Basnet, Minister of Education, Sports and Youth Affairs, Law, and Parliamentary Affairs departments. He was accompanied by Sonam Palzor, OSD, Education department.

The event also had the presence of Tashi Chophel, secretary (SE), Education department; Sonam Denzongpa, principal director, Education department; Robin Chettri, director, SCERT; Tseringkee Chingapa, director and State Nodal Officer, Education department; Rajdeep Rai, chief engineer; and Lhaki Bhutia, additional secretary (Administration), along with teachers, students, and representatives from the 43 PM SHRI Schools throughout Sikkim.

In his address, Raju Basnet urged students to perceive the two-day PM SHRI Convention as an invaluable opportunity for mutual learning, idea sharing, and engaging in healthy competition, which promotes personal development, teamwork, and the honing of critical skills.

Basnet advocated for the optimal use of modern technology and resources at their disposal, characterising them as essential tools for learning and development. He underscored the significance of time management, encouraging the incorporation of self-study into their routines and the cultivation of self-sufficiency. Furthermore, he inspired students to strive for success by leveraging the opportunities presented to them and to develop skills necessary for excelling academically and in life.

He further conveyed that under the leadership of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, the government has initiated a complimentary coaching program for Class X and XII students aimed at facilitating their success in the forthcoming board examinations.

Tashi Chophel, secretary (SE), Education department, commended the innovative projects showcased during the art, craft, AI, and robotics exhibition by PM SHRI students, praising their creativity and technical proficiencies. He noted that such initiatives not only exhibit the students' talents but also highlight the transformative effect of the PM SHRI scheme in nurturing innovation and critical thinking.

He detailed that there exist more than 14500 PM SHRI Schools across India, with Sikkim housing 43 institutions selected under this esteemed scheme. He emphasised that these schools ought to serve as exemplars for other educational institutions, establishing benchmarks in academic excellence, innovation, and comprehensive development. He further encouraged students to foster a spirit of collaboration in addition to competition, as both are essential for their personal and professional advancement.

Tseringkee Chingapa, director cum SNO, Education department, characterised the PM SHRI Convention as a platform for promoting peer learning and showcasing talent among students. She also elaborated on the six foundational pillars of PM SHRI Schools, which aim to deliver not only quality education but also holistic development through innovation, technology, and excellence in extracurricular activities.

The inaugural day of the convention featured an art, craft, AI, and robotics exhibition, which was inaugurated by the Education minister, who subsequently toured the displays.

Furthermore, competitions among the 43 PM SHRI Schools were organised, encompassing folk dance, role play, debate, quiz, and various athletic events, including races, long jump, shot put, and relay races.