The Education Department has recently announced a revised funding structure for the Gyan Shakti Residential Schools under the School of Excellence Project. This initiative, launched through a public-private partnership (PPP) model, aims to provide high-quality education to meritorious students from government and grant-in-aid schools2.
Key Changes in the Revised Funding Structure
- Annual Increment: The new funding structure maintains a 7% annual increment but calculates it on a fixed base amount of Rs 60,000. This means schools will receive a fixed increment of Rs 4,200 each year.
- Base Amount Review: The base amount will be reviewed every five years to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
- Infrastructure Costs: Participating institutions are still responsible for infrastructure costs, while the government will select students through entrance tests and provide fee vouchers.
- Fee Vouchers: The Education Department will provide fee vouchers to students twice in an academic year, at the start of each semester. These vouchers can only be used for payment of fees to the schools3.
Objectives of the Revised Funding Structure
The revised funding structure aims to ensure the sustainability and quality of education provided by the Gyan Shakti Residential Schools. By maintaining a fixed increment, the government ensures that schools have a predictable and stable source of funding, which can help them plan and manage their resources more effectively.
Impact on Schools and Students
The revised funding structure is expected to have a positive impact on both schools and students. Schools will benefit from the stability of the fixed increment, allowing them to focus on improving the quality of education and infrastructure. Students will continue to receive high-quality education without any disruption, thanks to the reliable funding provided by the government.
Conclusion
The revised funding structure for Gyan Shakti Residential Schools under the School of Excellence Project is a step towards ensuring the sustainability and quality of education for meritorious students. By providing a stable and predictable source of funding, the government aims to support schools in their mission to offer high-quality education and prepare students for a bright future.