HT Correspondent
PASIGHAT, July 7: In a major push toward experiential and activity-based learning in Arunachal Pradesh, Education Minister P D Sona on Monday inaugurated Saksham—a Student Activity and Enrichment Centre—at Springdale 5th IRBn Welfare School in Pasighat.
According to an official statement, the innovative learning centre has been designed to align with the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework 2023.
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It seeks to nurture curious, well-rounded, and confident young learners by promoting play-based, activity-driven, and experiential education.
Speaking as the Chief Guest at the event, Minister Sona lauded the efforts of Commandant of the 5th IRBn, Garima Singh, IPS, for her leadership in establishing the centre, and commended the dedicated team of IRBn personnel who supported the project.
He described Saksham as a model initiative in the education sector and called for its replication in schools across the state.
“This is the need of the hour—to spark curiosity and instill joy for learning among young minds through interactive and hands-on methods,” he said.
The minister also appreciated the inclusive vision of the project, noting that the centre will be open not only to children of IRBn personnel but also to students from Pasighat and nearby schools in the district.
He added that the State Government is preparing to introduce similar integrated learning methods at the elementary level by merging government pre-primary schools with Anganwadi centres.
Highlighting the importance of science and innovation, Sona further underscored the need to establish more space labs in schools to encourage students’ interest in space technology.
Guest of honour and Ruksin MLA Ninong Ering also praised Commandant Garima Singh and the 5th IRBn fraternity for successfully establishing the Saksham centre.
Addressing the students, he urged them to remain committed to their studies and make the most of the resources made available to them.
Earlier in the programme, Commandant Garima Singh briefed attendees about the school’s various welfare initiatives and educational strategies.
She informed that the Saksham Centre is equipped with a Digital Learning Zone, a library, an indoor games section, and dedicated creative spaces for drawing, music, craft, and theatre.
The centre also focuses on life skills including health and hygiene, traffic safety, and value-based education.
Singh acknowledged the tireless efforts of her team in making the project a success.
The inauguration ceremony was also attended by Pasighat MLA Tapi Darang, Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani, Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba, and DDSE Odhuk Tabing, among others.
As part of his visit, Minister Sona also interacted with students and appreciated the exhibition models prepared by them.
He later participated in a plantation drive within the school campus.
