Delhi Education Minister Atishi addressed the faculty at Cambridge University, UK, highlighting the Arvind Kejriwal government’s initiatives involving actively engaged parents in the learning process, bridging the gap between teachers, principals, and families from diverse socio-economic backgrounds to transform Delhi’s tin-shed schools into some of India’s best educational institutes, with the Faculty of Education.
Atishi said that Arvind Kejriwal government’s education model has given hope to millions of children across Delhi and Punjab and this has proved that if governments muster the political will to bring change, change is definitely possible.
Atishi also highlighted the deep-seated divide in the Indian education system, where access to quality education often hinges on economic disparities.
In a statement, her office the minister vividly recounted her initial shock upon witnessing the deplorable conditions of Delhi government schools when she first assumed her role as an advisor to the then Education Minister Manish Sisodia in 2015.
“The foul stench of neglected toilets permeated the air, dilapidated classrooms lacked basic facilities, and students were forced to study in substandard environments. The transformation of Delhi’s education landscape became the top priority for the Aam Aadmi Party-led government, with a relentless commitment to improving school infrastructure and cleanliness, thus eradicating the notion that government school attendees were considered second-class citizens,” she added.
Atishi is currently in the UK to participate in the Cambridge India Conference and engage with the leadership of Cambridge University to explore further partnership opportunities.
The minister said, “The government’s unwavering commitment to the professional development and motivation of teachers, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the future of students by sending them to renowned institutions worldwide, such as IIM Ahmedabad, and universities in the UK, Finland, and Singapore, the government exposed them to global best practices in education.
“Empowered and inspired, teachers and principals began to recognize their value and contributions, fostering a new sense of purpose and dedication. They developed a sense of ownership towards their schools and students.”
Moreover, the government actively engaged parents in the learning process, bridging the gap between teachers, principals, and families from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The introduction of Mega Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs) allowed parents to interact directly with educators, fostering a collaborative approach to education.