Teachers and community leaders emphasized the importance of preparing students for real-world challenges beyond academics. “Education must go beyond textbooks. We want our students to develop communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence,” said a senior teacher from GUPS Rajanagar-III.
Workshops covered various themes, such as environmental conservation, health awareness, and teamwork. Students actively participated in group discussions, art and craft sessions, and outdoor activities. These sessions encouraged them to express creativity, learn practical skills, and understand the value of community living.
Community Involvement Strengthens Impact
The initiative saw strong participation from parents, local leaders, and education department officials, who applauded the concept. Parents were particularly impressed by the platform’s role in building character and social awareness in children.
“Bagless Saturday allows children to learn in a stress-free environment. They return home inspired, and parents get a chance to see their child’s talents shine,” said a parent who attended the event.
The collaborative approach reflected Changlang’s ongoing commitment to strengthening rural education. Community-driven participation also helped reinforce traditional values, with sessions on local culture and heritage included in the activities.
A Step Towards NEP 2020 Goals
The concept of Bagless Saturday aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages hands-on learning and vocational training from an early stage. By implementing these reforms, schools in Changlang are setting an example for other districts in Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast region.
Officials from the education department praised the school’s efforts, stressing the need for experiential learning to complement academic knowledge. “NEP 2020 focuses on skills and holistic education. Bagless Saturday ensures these goals are implemented effectively at the grassroots,” an official stated.
Promoting Environmental Awareness
Environmental education formed a major part of the day’s activities. Students participated in plantation drives, cleanliness campaigns, and discussions on sustainable living. The school also organized sessions on waste management and water conservation, urging students to become ambassadors of environmental change in their communities.
Teachers highlighted the importance of nurturing environmental consciousness in young learners. “Children are the future guardians of our environment. Teaching them these lessons early helps create a more responsible generation,” a teacher said.
Encouraging Creativity and Confidence
Beyond environmental lessons, cultural events and creative competitions helped students display their talents. Traditional dances, songs, and storytelling sessions were performed, reflecting the region’s rich cultural diversity. Art exhibitions showcased the creativity of students, giving them a platform to build confidence.
Students expressed excitement over the programme, saying it gave them an opportunity to learn new things outside the classroom. “We enjoyed dancing, painting, and learning about nature. It feels different from regular classes,” said a student from GUPS Rajanagar-III.
Strengthening the Education System
Education activists believe initiatives like Bagless Saturday will play a key role in reducing dropouts in rural schools. By making learning fun and interactive, such programmes create a positive association with school life.
The Changlang district administration has shown interest in replicating the event across more schools. Officials indicated that similar initiatives would be encouraged in all government schools to boost student engagement and ensure education reaches every child effectively.
A Model for Other States
The success of Bagless Saturday in Changlang has sparked conversations about adopting similar strategies in other parts of Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast. With rural schools often struggling with attendance and motivation, educators believe a hands-on, interactive approach could transform the learning experience.
As schools increasingly align with the goals of NEP 2020, such initiatives showcase how grassroots innovation can redefine education. Bagless Saturday has become a model for holistic development, ensuring that education is not only about academics but also about character, culture, and creativity.
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