Mohali, April 30: Punjab’s initiative to overhaul its public education sector reached a significant milestone Wednesday as Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann honored 369 meritorious students for their success in the JEE Mains exam. Speaking in SAS Nagar, the Chief Minister asserted that the performance of these students proves that government schools can produce top-tier national talent when provided with the right resources and environment.
The Chief Minister affirmed that the state remains committed to eliminating the divide between privileged private education and resourceful public schooling. He stated that many of the honored students come from economically vulnerable families, yet they have achieved results comparable to those from elite private institutions. He maintained that education is the most potent tool for lasting social change, surpassing the impact of any temporary subsidy or welfare card.
During the interaction, several students shared personal accounts of how government support facilitated their success. Priya Bhardwaj from Hoshiarpur noted that state assistance was vital in allowing her to pursue her academic goals following the loss of her father. Another student, Priya Kumari, stated that her experience in a School of Eminence completely changed her perception of government-run education, describing the institutions as a vital resource for aspiring youth.
Mann declared that the government’s investment in its teaching staff has been a “game changer” for the state. He asserted that sending teachers for international training in Singapore and Finland has transformed classroom engagement into an interactive and enjoyable experience. He also mentioned that systemic changes, such as relieving teachers of non-academic burdens, have been essential in raising the overall standard of instruction.
The Chief Minister concluded by appealing to parents to allow their children the freedom to choose their own career paths based on individual talent. He asserted that humble beginnings are no obstacle to greatness, noting that his administration will continue to strive for a “Rangla Punjab” where every child has an equal opportunity to succeed. Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains and Secretary Education Sonali Giri were among the officials present to recognize the students’ achievements.
