On October 14, 2024, Army Public School, Jaipur, became the first school in the region to integrate media education into its curriculum, marking a significant step forward in holistic student development. The Saksham Sanchar Foundation, in collaboration with the school, felicitated the first batch of students who successfully completed the three-month media education course. The ceremony, held with great enthusiasm, highlighted the school’s innovative approach to modern education.
A Visionary Step in Education
Colonel S.S. Rathore, SO AWWA, graced the occasion as the chief guest, offering words of encouragement and appreciation to the students. In students address, Colonel Rathore expressed gratitude for the initiative and applauded the students for their keen participation and commitment. He emphasized the importance of media literacy in today’s fast-evolving world, where understanding media dynamics is crucial for informed and responsible citizenship.
Experiential Learning Beyond the Classroom
Throughout the course, students were exposed to practical learning experiences that extended beyond traditional classroom settings. As part of the program, they visited some of Jaipur’s most significant landmarks, including the City Palace, the Governor House, and Constitution Park. These excursions provided students with a unique perspective on how media interacts with governance, culture, and heritage.
A particularly memorable moment for the students was meeting Vasudev Devnani, Speaker of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. His insights into legislative procedures and the role of media in democracy added depth to the students’ understanding of media’s power in shaping public opinion.
Outdoor Learning: A New Approach
The course was designed to be engaging, incorporating a mix of theoretical lessons and outdoor education. This hands-on approach allowed students to connect what they learned in the classroom with real-world scenarios, making media education not only interesting but also highly relevant. The opportunity to experience media in action, especially through visits to important civic institutions, left a lasting impact on the students.
A Proud Moment of Achievement
At the felicitation ceremony, 50 students proudly received certificates for completing the media education course. These students represent the first batch of what is expected to be an ongoing program, setting the stage for future students to follow in their footsteps. For the participants, this course was more than just an academic achievement; it was an exploration of the world through the lens of media, communication, and storytelling.
Shaping the Future with Media Literacy
As the first school in Jaipur to offer media education, Army Public School is paving the way for others to adopt similar programs. Media literacy has become an essential skill in the digital age, and initiatives like this empower students to think critically, engage with media responsibly, and understand its impact on society.
With this successful first batch, the school has taken a bold step in equipping students with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of today’s media landscape, laying the groundwork for more informed and socially responsible citizens.
Summing Up
The completion of this course is not just a milestone for Army Public School but a testament to the power of progressive education. By combining outdoor learning with media studies, the school has created an enriching and forward-thinking environment where students can thrive. As more students benefit from this innovative program, Army Public School’s pioneering efforts will continue to inspire and lead the way in media education.