Smart Classrooms Initiative Leads to 22% Increase in Student Enrolment

1. In December 2024, a study by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore highlighted the transformative impact of smart classrooms implemented under the Smart Cities Mission (SCM).

1. The initiative has led to a 22% increase in student enrolment, improved learning experiences, and greater teacher comfort in government schools across India.

Key Achievements of the Smart Classroom Initiative

1. Increase in Enrolment: Between 2015-16 and 2023-24, there has been a 22% rise in overall student enrolment in government schools equipped with smart classrooms.
2. Geographic Reach: 71 cities across India have developed 9,433 smart classrooms in 2,398 government schools.

1. Karnataka leads with 80 smart classroom projects, followed by Rajasthan (53), Tamil Nadu (23), and Delhi (12).
2. West Bengal, with only two projects, ranks at the bottom of the implementation table.

3. Improved Learning and Attendance: Teachers and students have reported improved learning experiences and higher attendance due to the integration of technology in classrooms.
4. Enhanced Teacher Comfort: Special training provided to teachers has improved their comfort and preference for using smart classroom facilities, with senior secondary teachers demonstrating the highest levels of ease.
5. Development of Digital Libraries: 41 cities have developed digital libraries with a total seating capacity of around 7,800.
6. Educational Impact: Cities like Raipur (Chhattisgarh) and Tumakuru (Karnataka) have leveraged these libraries to provide essential resources, supporting students in their competitive exam preparations.

About the Smart Cities Mission (SCM)

1. The Smart Cities Mission was launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in 2015.
2. It aims to enhance the quality of life for citizens by promoting sustainable and inclusive development through the application of smart solutions.
3. Objectives:

1. To provide core infrastructure and ensure a clean and sustainable environment.
2. To drive economic growth and improve the quality of life through social, economic, physical, and institutional reforms.
3. To create replicable models that act as lighthouses for other aspiring cities.

Key Features

1. Coverage: 100 cities were selected for development through a two-stage competition.
2. Funding: The Central Government provides financial support of Rs. 48,000 crores over five years, averaging Rs. 100 crore per city per year.

1. States and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) match the funding and raise additional resources through municipal bonds, government programs, and public-private partnerships (PPP).

3. Progress: As of November 2024, 91% of SCM projects have been completed.

SAAR Platform and Sameeksha Series

1. SAAR Platform: Launched in 2022, SAAR (Smart Cities and Academia towards Action and Research) bridges academia and government to document and research urban initiatives.
2. Sameeksha Series: Under the SAAR initiative, 50 impact assessment studies have been conducted by 29 premier institutions, including:

1. Six Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)
2. Eight Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)
3. Three Schools of Planning and Architecture
4. Twelve specialized research institutes

Conclusion

The Smart Classroom Initiative under the Smart Cities Mission has marked a significant milestone in transforming education in India. The rise in student enrolment, enhanced learning experiences, and better-equipped teachers underscore the program's success. Furthermore, the development of digital libraries and collaborative research platforms like SAAR demonstrate the mission’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive urban development.

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