A unique initiative has been taken by a private school in Surat, where they have converted a school bus into a “moving classroom” for educating underprivileged children. This fully functional portable classroom aims to provide proper education to children lacking access to formal education.
Minister of State for Education Prafulla Panseria had inaugurated this “moving school”, called the Pramukh Swami Smriti Vidya Mandir. This innovative project was initiated by Mahesh Bhai Patel, to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of Pramukh Swami. The expenditure for this transformation of the school bus into a classroom is said to be Rs. 8.65 lakhs.
A blackboard has been installed inside the bus for a traditional classroom experience, along with a television for entertainment as well as providing educational content for the students. For a holistic learning experience, play items have also been included besides these.
Minister Prafulla Panseria called this initiative the “first of its kind” in Gujarat while interacting with the children seated on the bus. He also conducted a brief teaching session and 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 moving classroom can accommodate 32 students at a time. The bus will be stationed in different locations, including gardens, temple premises, and school compounds, where necessary facilities such as water and washrooms will be arranged.
The curriculum will not only focus on academic subjects but also include practical skills training, such as electrical and plumbing work, to equip older students with employable skills.
Admission processes will also be facilitated for students who wish to continue their education in formal schools.
