Restored 19th Century School in Gujarat, Where PM Modi Studied, to Become an Inspirational Center for Children
06-06-2023 : The historic school in Vadnagar, Gujarat, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi received his early education, has undergone restoration and redevelopment as part of the ‘Prerna’ project. According to reliable government sources, this unique initiative aims to transform the school into a center of inspiration for children through immersive experiences.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has meticulously restored the school, which was originally constructed in the late 19th century, using an old architectural style. The redevelopment of this school aligns with the prime minister’s vision and is considered a pioneering endeavor in school redevelopment known as ‘Prerna: The Vernacular School.’ Its purpose is to ignite the youth of the nation to become catalysts of positive change.
The restoration and redevelopment of the school are part of a comprehensive plan to revitalize the historic city of Vadnagar, which has witnessed uninterrupted human habitation for over 2,500 years. The program is set to be launched later this year, with two students from each district participating in a series of batches. In total, 1,500 students from all 750 districts of the country will take part in this transformative program.
Described as an “experiential school,” ‘Prerna’ will adopt a unique pedagogy, utilizing both unconventional and technology-based methods to impart values and inspire children to become agents of change. The residential program will be fully funded by the central government, covering all necessary expenses for each participating child.
The primary objective of this initiative is to inspire individuals across all districts of India, starting from Vadnagar, with the hope of replicating this model in other parts of the country. The project aims to empower independent thinking and self-identity, instill a sense of pride and duty towards the nation, foster initiative, promote unity, respect for diversity, and embrace the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family).
Children enrolled in the program will partake in sessions on valor, compassion, and various other topics. They will learn about valor through the stories of 21 Param Vir Chakra winners and about compassion from the lives and legacies of influential figures such as Lord Buddha, Lord Mahavira, Emperor Ashoka, and Mahatma Gandhi. Prominent leaders like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Jawaharlal Nehru will be brought to life through holograms, enabling children to witness their speeches firsthand.
The restoration work on the late 19th-century school building commenced in 2018. The structure has been meticulously restored using vernacular architectural elements, aiming to recreate its original appearance. The selection criteria and other details are currently being finalized, and children from all types of schools will be eligible to participate in this remarkable initiative.
Vadnagar, located approximately 100 kilometers from Ahmedabad in the Mehsana district of Gujarat, is a town rich in historical significance with a population of around 28,000. In December 2022, Vadnagar town, along with the iconic Sun Temple at Modhera in Gujarat and the rock-cut relief sculptures of Unakoti in Tripura, was added to the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The inclusion of Vadnagar on this prestigious list is expected to significantly boost tourism in the town and further enhance Gujarat’s cultural heritage.
