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RECENTLY IN NEWS: In a significant initiative towards sustainable education infrastructure, the Art of Living Foundation, led by spiritual luminary  Sri Ravi Shankar, has recently completed the installation of a 2 kW solar power system at the Government Senior Secondary School in Dharwas, situated in the remote and picturesque Pangi valley of Chamba district.

Introduction

Solar energy has emerged as a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution to meet the escalating energy needs of schools in India. The installation of solar panels in educational institutions carries substantial importance as it ensures continuous electricity supply, diminishes reliance on conventional energy sources, and contributes to a more sustainable future. Notably, many schools in India, particularly in rural areas, face interruptions in power supply despite having electricity connections. Additionally, numerous schools struggle with funding for electricity bills. Recently, solar panels have gained prominence as a significant renewable energy source, transforming the way we power our schools and educational establishments. The increasing emphasis on installing solar panels in schools across India reflects a growing commitment to renewable energy adoption and environmental stewardship.

Solar Smart Classroom Programme

The project forms part of the broader Solar Smart Classroom programme, aimed at enhancing educational facilities in remote areas across the state. The integration of a 2 kW solar power system with a smart screen represents a forward-thinking approach towards providing enhanced learning experiences for students in these challenging geographical regions.

Scope and Impact

Currently encompassing 21 government senior secondary schools across various districts, including 8 schools from Chamba, 4 from Solan, and 3 each from Kullu, Lahaul, and Una, the programme underscores a commitment to environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, and cultural enrichment.

Benefits Beyond Electricity

The benefits of the Solar Smart Classroom programme, as implemented by the Art of Living Foundation and the Himalayan Development Mission, are multifaceted and impactful:

1. Environmental Sustainability: By harnessing solar power for educational purposes, the programme contributes significantly to reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly energy solutions.
2. Cost Efficiency: Solar energy is a renewable and cost-effective alternative to traditional electricity sources, leading to long-term savings for schools and promoting financial sustainability.
3. Improved Learning Environments: The integration of a smart screen with the solar power system enhances the quality of education by providing access to digital learning resources, interactive teaching tools, and multimedia content.
4. Educational Opportunities: Incorporating solar panels into school infrastructure enriches educational opportunities by offering hands-on learning experiences in renewable energy and sustainability. Through practical activities, experiments, and research, students can cultivate scientific curiosity and develop a deep awareness of environmental issues. Moreover, the installation of solar panels ensures a reliable power supply for various educational activities, including classroom sessions, computer labs, multimedia presentations, and other essential equipment. Furthermore, solar panels facilitate the charging of electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones, fostering connectivity among students and educators.
5. Energy Independence: Solar panels offer schools freedom from reliance on the electricity grid, particularly valuable in regions with inconsistent power availability. This independence guarantees continuous access to electricity, fostering an environment conducive to teaching and learning without interruptions.

Overall, the Solar Smart Classroom programme not only addresses immediate educational needs but also contributes to broader social, environmental, and economic goals, making it a valuable investment in the future of education and sustainable development.