CHANDIGARH, Oct 27 — Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday said his government’s education reforms are rewriting Punjab’s story — one where students evolve from job seekers into job givers through quality education, mentorship, and entrepreneurial support.
“We are preparing our youth not just for employment but for leadership,” Mann said during a visit to the School of Eminence in Morinda. “These institutions are modern temples of learning — places where self-confidence and purpose are being rebuilt.”
Since taking office, the Mann government has invested ₹231.74 crore in creating Schools of Eminence across the state. Each school offers free uniforms and transportation, especially benefiting girl students. The chief minister said the initiative ensures that “no child’s dream ends because of financial hardship.”
Education officials said the program’s goal is not limited to classroom learning. Students now receive coaching for competitive examinations including NEET, JEE, CLAT, NIFT, and defence services. “In today’s global landscape, our youth must be prepared to compete with the best,” Mann noted.
The results, he said, are a source of pride for Punjab. This year, 265 students from government schools cleared JEE Mains, 74 made it through JEE Advanced, and 848 qualified NEET. “These numbers prove that talent exists in every corner of Punjab — it just needs the right environment to thrive,” Mann remarked.
The government’s broader vision, he added, is to channel youth energy toward innovation and entrepreneurship. “Our mission is clear — to turn job seekers into job creators. Punjab’s future lies in the hands of its entrepreneurs and innovators,” Mann said.
To bridge the gap between academics and real-world experience, the School Mentorship Program has been introduced. Senior government officials volunteer as mentors, providing career advice, guidance, and motivation to students in public schools. “This exposure gives students a glimpse into leadership and helps them develop confidence and ambition,” an official involved in the program said.
Describing education as “the most powerful form of empowerment,” Mann said these reforms mark the beginning of a larger transformation. “This is not just about building schools,” he said. “It’s about building self-belief, building a future where every young Punjabi can dream — and make those dreams happen right here.”
Officials said the education overhaul is tied to Punjab’s economic revival plan, linking skill-building with employment and enterprise. The chief minister added that this vision of a ‘Rangla Punjab’ is one where every young person contributes to the prosperity and self-reliance of the state.
“Punjab’s youth have always been known for their courage,” Mann said. “Now, with the right education and opportunities, they will also be known for their leadership.”
