Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said that education is the most crucial achievement for any capable and strong nation.

“Education is the cornerstone of a civilised and capable society, and a strong nation. Without it, the realisation of human values and the fulfillment of life’s necessities are unimaginable,” Yogi said while inaugurating the state’s first ‘Road to School’ project under the ‘Nipun Bharat Mission’ in Chargaon block of Gorakhpur.

He highlighted the pivotal role of education in fostering self-reliance, noting, “When individuals are self-dependent, society and the nation also become self-reliant. In such a scenario, there is no reason why India cannot become the world’s greatest power.”

While discussing the importance of education, Yogi noted that efforts to make education accessible to all have been a priority since ancient times, with the Gurukul system serving as a key inspiration.

He cited Takshila, Nalanda, Vikramshila, Kashi, and Kanchipuram as renowned centres of learning and teaching in ancient India.

The chief minister also acknowledged that although significant efforts were made to strengthen the field of education after India gained independence, much work remains to be done to fully realise the nation’s educational potential.

Yogi highlighted the significant improvements in the state’s council schools over the past seven years, attributing these changes to the government’s dedicated efforts.

He pointed out that before 2017, dropout rates were a major issue, with many students failing to attend school regularly or not continuing their education beyond certain grades.

“A large number of enrolled children did not come to schools, and many did not advance to Class VI after Class V, or to Class IX after Class VIII,” he noted.

The government’s ‘School Chalo Abhiyan’ placed a strong emphasis on the role of teachers, which led to a steady resolution of this problem, he added.

He further said that since the launch of the ‘School Chalo Abhiyan’, the number of students in UP’s council schools has seen a significant increase, with 50-60 lakh new enrollments after 2017.

“Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years, the number of students in these schools has risen from 1.34 crore to 1.92 crore,” he pointed out.

The chief minister emphasized that by securing a bright future for the children, the government is laying the foundation for a prosperous future for India.

Emphasising the government’s commitment to strengthening school education through resources and incentives, Yogi stated that a significant number of schools have been upgraded under ‘Operation Kayakalp’ with the support of public representatives and prominent citizens.

“Smart classes have been established and equipped with excellent furniture and other facilities. To encourage attendance, the government provides Rs 1,200 to the parents of every child for uniforms, books, bags, shoes, socks, and more,” he noted.

The chief minister also mentioned that Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas are being enriched with resources to support girls’ education.

“Additionally, Atal Residential Schools have been opened at all divisional headquarters to offer free education to the children of workers, and day schools will soon be launched in 57 districts. To further strengthen the education sector, PM SHRI and Mukhyamantri Composite Schools are being established,” he said.

Yogi emphasised the importance of collective efforts in achieving the vision of a ‘Nipun Uttar Pradesh’ through the Nipun Bharat Mission, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision.

The chief minister described the ‘Road to School’ project as an extension of the ‘School Chalo Abhiyan’

In this initiative, a resource person, supported by a team working in a pyramid structure, is responsible for bringing children to school, ensuring their regular attendance, and monitoring their education, health, sports, and artistic development.

“The ‘Road to School’ programme adopts an innovative approach by incorporating practical examples into teaching. This programme is designed with a strong emphasis on achieving 100% enrollment, ensuring regular class attendance, and facilitating smooth transitions to higher grades. The ‘Road to School’ is a crucial component of the broader initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall quality of education,” he remarked.

The chief minister expressed gratitude to Ashok Leyland Limited and its implementation partner, the Learning Link Foundation, for launching the project in collaboration with the Basic Education department.

Yogi announced that the first phase of the project will include all 78 council schools (primary, upper primary, and composite) in the Chargaon block, benefitting 17,781 students. The second phase will extend to 90 council schools in the Bhathat block, where 16,434 students will receive support.

The project aims to boost student enrollment in council schools, reduce dropout rates, foster a greater interest in studies, provide health care, and promote advancement in sports and skills.

The chief minister urged teachers to recognise their role as the architects of a new India. He stressed the importance of teachers remaining up-to-date with diverse areas of knowledge to effectively educate the next generation.

He urged teachers to be well-versed not only in their respective subjects but also in their social responsibilities. “It will enable you to nurture capable and responsible citizens. By continuously updating knowledge, teachers will be able to impart essential skills to students, who will, in turn, appreciate their efforts in shaping their futures,” Yogi said.

MLA Mahendrapal Singh and Principal Secretary (Basic Education) Dr S Sundaram also spoke at the event. Vice President of Ashok Leyland Foundation Shashi Kumar expressed his gratitude.

Meanwhile, Yogi visited various stalls set up by the Basic Education department, Bal Vikas evam Pushtahar department, and others at the event.

He engaged with the children, offering encouragement and support. He also participated in the Annaprashan ceremony, and performed the ‘Godhbharai’ ritual for pregnant women.

Later, the chief minister honoured outstanding students from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas.