Rohit Thakur chaired the third Steering Committee meeting of the UNESCO-supported ‘HP FUTURES’ project, organized by Samagra Shiksha, to review progress and chart the next phase of education reforms in Himachal Pradesh.
Addressing officials and stakeholders, the Minister said that the partnership with UNESCO reflects the State Government’s firm resolve to deliver world-class education, despite geographical constraints and frequent natural calamities. He emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure equitable and quality learning opportunities, even in the remotest parts of the hill state.
Launched in 2025, the HP FUTURES project aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework 2023. The initiative focuses on building future-ready, inclusive and climate-resilient PM SHRI schools across the state. Structured around three key pillars—Competency-Based Education, Value Education through Sports and Greening Education—the project seeks to promote critical thinking, leadership, teamwork and environmental awareness while equipping students with essential 21st-century skills.
Since the first Steering Committee meeting in September 2025, consultations have been conducted with civil society groups, SCERT, DIETs and other stakeholders. Nearly 200 teachers, including senior secondary physical education lecturers, have been trained in Value Education through Sports. Eco-clubs have also been strengthened, with greater student participation in sustainability initiatives.
The Minister informed that the reforms will initially be implemented in 12 PM SHRI schools, later expanding to all 99 such schools before being rolled out statewide. He directed stronger teacher training through DIETs, enhanced coordination among the HP Board, SCERT and DIETs and regular monitoring to ensure measurable outcomes.
Stressing the importance of implementation, Thakur said that UNESCO’s recommendations must translate into tangible improvements in classroom teaching, learning outcomes and school functioning. He called for strict, time-bound execution, assuring close monitoring at every stage.
Highlighting fiscal constraints, the Minister noted that only around three percent of the State budget is allocated to education, much of which is spent on salaries and pensions. Despite this, he said, the government remains committed to undertaking meaningful reforms and expressed confidence that sustained collaboration with UNESCO would help position Himachal Pradesh as a model education state.
Secretary Education Rakesh Kanwar also shared key suggestions during the meeting. UNESCO delegates presented detailed findings and recommendations based on field visits conducted in schools across the state.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
