Srinagar, September 12: Headquarters Northern Command commemorated a decade of educational partnership between the Army Goodwill Schools (AGS) and the Bharti Airtel Foundation, reaffirming the Indian Army’s efforts to strengthen quality education and create greater opportunities for youth across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.
The commemorative event was held at Army Goodwill Public School, Pahalgam, and was attended by Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, SYSM, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command; Shri Rakesh Bharti Mittal, Co-Chairman, Bharti Airtel Foundation; and Mrs Shinei Sharma, Regional President AWWA, Northern Command, besides senior officials of the Indian Army and the Foundation.
The decade-long partnership has expanded significantly in both scope and impact. Beginning with 14 schools, the initiative has now extended educational interventions across all 43 Army Goodwill Schools in the region.
The partnership has focused on strengthening institutional leadership, classroom practices, academic management and teacher capabilities, while promoting technology-enabled learning and supporting the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
A major focus has also been placed on encouraging creativity and scientific temperament among students. Through AGS Innovation Clubs, students have undertaken more than 160 student-led projects and participated in national-level platforms, including ISRO YUVIKA, INSPIRE-MANAK and Young Scientist India.
Addressing the gathering, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma shared his experiences as a student and spoke about overcoming challenges and circumstances through determination. He encouraged students to dream big, remain committed to their goals and work consistently towards achieving them.
Shri Rakesh Bharti Mittal announced that the Bharti Airtel Foundation would continue its support to the Army Goodwill Schools for the next decade. He also announced several new initiatives, including books for school libraries, sports coaching, additional smart classes, scholarships for higher education and cash incentives for meritorious Class 10 and 12 students.
Mrs Shinei Sharma, Regional President AWWA, Northern Command, motivated the students and urged teachers and parents to provide continuous support and guidance to help them meet future challenges.
She also called upon society to focus on the education of the girl child and work towards building a more inclusive society.
Northern Command reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the educational ecosystem of Army Goodwill Schools and empowering the next generation through quality education, creativity, leadership and holistic development, enabling young people to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.
