Kerala’s PM SHRI Debate Puts Focus on 14,500-School NEP 2020 Plan

The PM SHRI scheme aims to upgrade more than 14,500 existing government schools as model institutions showcasing the provisions of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The centrally sponsored scheme focuses on improving school infrastructure, teaching practices and learning resources. More than 20 lakh students are expected to benefit from the programme.

Under PM SHRI, selected schools will be developed with facilities for a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment. The schools are also expected to demonstrate educational practices that can be adopted by other institutions.

The scheme focuses on implementing NEP 2020 principles through experiential, inquiry-based, learner-centred and competency-based education. It also promotes assessment methods that assess students’ conceptual understanding and their ability to apply knowledge.

PM SHRI schools will have facilities and activities related to sports, arts and information and communication technology. The programme also focuses on creativity, critical thinking, multilingual education and inclusive learning.

Another component involves the use of technology to track student progress. A student registry and unique identification system are proposed to monitor enrolment and learning progress and identify students who may require additional support.

The scheme also provides for developing schools as green and sustainable institutions and establishing links with local entrepreneurial ecosystems.

PM SHRI schools are intended to serve as model institutions and share educational practices with neighbouring schools.

In Kerala, the implementation of the scheme has become a matter of discussion because participating states are required to implement provisions of NEP 2020 and sign an MoU with the Centre. The state government has expressed reservations over certain provisions and is examining whether to proceed with the scheme.

The Kerala government has appointed a Cabinet subcommittee to examine the matter and recommend whether the state should implement the scheme or withdraw from it.