In a unique initiative, a private school in Surat, Gujarat, has converted a school bus into a fully functional portable classroom. This innovative project aims to provide education to underprivileged children who often lack access to formal schooling.
The moving school, named Pramukh Swami Smriti Vidya Mandir, was inaugurated by Minister of State for Education Prafulla Panseria.
Mahesh Bhai Patel, the visionary behind the moving school, initiated this project to commemorate the birth centenary of Pramukh Swami. With an expenditure of Rs 8.65 lakhs, Patel transformed the bus into a classroom-like environment suitable for young students.
Inside the bus, a blackboard has been installed to replicate a traditional classroom setting. Additionally, a television has been set up to provide both entertainment and educational content for the children.
Play items have also been included to ensure a holistic learning
experience.
During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Prafulla Panseria interacted with the children seated in the bus and even conducted a brief teaching session.
Praising the moving school, the minister highlighted its significance as the first of its kind in Gujarat.
He expressed his desire to replicate such initiatives throughout the state, with the support of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and collaboration with various social organisations and private schools.
The driving force behind starting the school in a bus, Mahesh Bhai Patel, shared his motivation for this innovative approach.
Inspired by his experience of living among the homeless community during a month-long service initiative, he recognised the need for educational opportunities for children from impoverished and nomadic backgrounds.
The mobile school bus aims to provide education to these children who cannot stay in one place for long periods.