The Education Department has initiated a project to establish smart classrooms in 400 government schools within the state. These modern classrooms are expected to be fully operational within the next 45 days.  Experts in the education department are expressing concerns regarding this plan. They argue that over 50% of the schools in the state are grappling with a lack of basic facilities. Given this situation, it is imperative to prioritize improvements in other amenities in addition to implementing smart classrooms. 

In Udaipur, there are 2250 schools in a state of disrepair, requesting Rs 1.88 crore for renovations, which have not been approved even after three months. Udaipur district comprises a total of about 3779 schools spanning from class 1 to 12. Of these, approximately 59%, or 2250 schools, have buildings in deteriorating conditions. The Education Department has earmarked 1.88 crore rupees to enhance the state of these schools. A proposal has been meticulously prepared and forwarded to Jaipur. However, over three months have elapsed since the submission of this proposal, and not a single rupee has been received to date. Just as banks have stepped up to support the establishment of smart classrooms, it is possible to seek assistance from other industrial entities in a similar fashion, potentially resulting in the improvement of at least 25% of the schools conditions.

The cost to set up a single classroom averages Rs 1 lakh. Based on this estimate, the entire state will require a budget of 4 crores rupees for this purpose. This funding will be provided by the bank. Currently, 30% of the schools in the state are equipped with smart classrooms, and the department has independently allocated the budget for this initiative.

Ganesh Lal Ninama, the retired Joint Director of the Education Department, believes that modernizing schools over time is a positive endeavor. Nevertheless, in the state, many of the government schools are grappling with fundamental infrastructure deficiencies. Some lack adequate seating, while others contend with deteriorating building conditions. In multiple schools, classes up to the 8th grade are being held within just two rooms. In certain instances, schools have been officially transitioned to English medium on paper; however, children continue to study while sitting on the floor with mats. 

Source: Dainik Bhaskar