At the state-level observance of World Teachers’ Day in Sri Anandpur Sahib, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann reaffirmed his government’s commitment to reshaping education as the foundation of progress and empowerment. Speaking before a gathering of educators, he described teachers as the “architects of the nation” and encouraged students to take pride in Punjab’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Reflecting on his personal background as the son of a teacher, Mann said that teaching is not just an occupation but “a sacred calling that lights the path for generations to come.” He shared that this understanding has guided his administration’s decisions to make education not only more accessible but also more meaningful for every child in Punjab.
During the event, the Chief Minister announced the revival of a long-awaited heritage project—a corridor linking Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Sri Anandpur Sahib. He said the initiative, coming after more than five decades, aims to strengthen young people’s connection to Punjab’s history and faith. Mann appealed to teachers to play a leading role in helping students appreciate their roots while equipping them to thrive in a modern, competitive world.
He also commended the state’s teaching community for their courage during the recent floods, which caused severe damage to thousands of schools, roads, and bridges. Despite these challenges, teachers stepped forward to help their communities rebuild. “Their service goes beyond classrooms—Punjab’s teachers have once again proved to be the moral spine of our society,” he said.
In recognition of exemplary service, 71 educators were honored with the State Teacher Awards. Mann reflected on the deeper meaning of the word “Guru,” explaining that it comes from the Sanskrit words “Gu,” meaning darkness, and “Ru,” meaning the one who removes it. “Our teachers are the light that dispels ignorance and guides the next generation toward wisdom,” he said.
The Chief Minister also outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to elevate the standard of education in Punjab. Over the past two years, 234 principals and education officers have received training in Singapore, 152 headmasters at IIM Ahmedabad, and 144 primary teachers in Finland. Another group is set to undergo training in Finland this November. To reduce teachers’ administrative burdens, the government has appointed 1,920 campus managers, allowing educators to dedicate more time to their students.
Under the “Education Revolution” initiative launched in 2022, the state has opened 118 Schools of Eminence, investing ₹231.74 crore so far. These schools, Mann noted, are delivering international-level education to children from modest backgrounds—so much so that students from private schools are now seeking admission.
Students from the Schools of Eminence have achieved exceptional results in competitive exams, with hundreds qualifying for JEE, NEET, CLAT, and NIFT. The Chief Minister also spoke about the success of the School Mentorship Program, where civil officers mentor students in government schools, and the revitalized Parent-Teacher Meeting initiative, which has drawn over 2.5 million parents across 19,200 schools.
Mann concluded by saying that the combined strength of teachers’ passion, students’ determination, and the government’s vision will transform Punjab into a hub of knowledge and opportunity. The event, attended by Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, MP Malvinder Singh Kang, and senior officials, underscored the government’s belief that education remains the key to building a prosperous, self-reliant Punjab anchored in its values and heritage.
