Emanating from the National Policy of Education 1986, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) were founded on the principle of nurturing talented students from rural areas into responsible and contributing citizens. JNVs have come a long way since the first two schools were inaugurated in 1985- 86 in Jhajjar (Haryana) and Amaravati (Maharashtra). Additionally, ten JNVs have been approved for districts with significant ST populations and another ten for substantial SC populations apart from the ones sanctioned in Manipur and Ratlam. This brings the total number of sanctioned JNVs to 661, out of which 659 are currently operational. What makes the JNVs stand apart is the fact that education is provided at no cost and students imbibe strong cultural ethos of India.
The Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS)
For the effective implementation and management of JNVs, the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) was established under the Societies Registration Act of 1860. The Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Education. The Samiti functions through an executive committee chaired by the Minister of Education. This committee is responsible for all management affairs, supported by sub-committees such as the Finance Committee and Academic Advisory Committee. The organizational structure extends to regional offices and district-level committees for smooth administration and monitoring. Each JNV has an Advisory Committee for academic and infrastructure matters, along with a Management Committee for budget preparation and proper school functioning.
Impact of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas
Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) shine as citadels of academic excellence and holistic development. JNVs embrace technology, innovative classes, science congresses, and exhibitions, fostering a research-oriented mindset among students. The commitment to academic excellence, technological integration, exposure to various disciplines, and nurturing of talent contributes holistically to student development. JNVs serve as catalysts for change, equipping students with the tools for academic success, self- discovery, positive community and societal contributions.
The Vigyan Jyothi Programme: An initiative of Department of Science & Technology (DST) in Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas
An initiative of Department of Science & Technology (DST) in Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Samiti in partnership with the Department of Science & Technology (DST) started ‘Vigyan Jyoti Knowledge’ centres at 250 Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas. The aim is to encourage girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. This initiative was originally instituted in December 2019 covering 50 JNV schools and has been extended till March 2024 having already helped nearly 25,000 girl students.
Selection of Students
Girls at JNVs, and neighbouring schools, in grades IX and XI, are offered assistance for a period of one year under this programme. The main focus of the programme is on enhancing of STEM education while at the same time providing insights about future prospects, specifically career guidance, to students. For the programme, the DST has given a direction of having 50 girls, from each grade IX and grade XI who register every year.
As part of the selection process for the programme, all girls from the Knowledge Centre, which is the respective JNV, are enrolled. Apart from this, if any seats are left, then girl students from nearby schools, like the Kendriya Vidyalayas, Army Public Schools and Government Schools are selected to fulfil the programme requirements. The respective JNV Principal and a coordinator, who is normally a Post Graduate Teacher in Physics, Chemistry, Math or Biology, act as key contacts for implementing the activities of the programme.
Students who are selected in this programme, are given monthly scholarship, of Rs.1000/- per month, and resource material, for a period of 12 months. These monthly stipends, along with any other funds required for the entire programme, are provided by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.
