J-K: Harud Festival at PM SHRI school in Banihal promotes skill-based education, self-reliance
PM SHRI school in Banihal hosts Harud Festival to teach students entrepreneurship, vocational skills, and self-reliance through hands-on learning.
In an era where academic degrees alone may not guarantee a stable future, a unique initiative in Jammu and Kashmir is teaching students how to build their own destinies. The PM SHRI Government Higher Secondary School Tether in Banihal recently hosted the Harud Festival, a vibrant event designed to shift the focus from traditional rote learning to practical, skill-based education and entrepreneurship.
Turning Classrooms into Business Hubs
The festival was not just a celebration of the season but a structured platform to nurture a business mindset among young learners. By integrating vocational training with formal schooling, the organizers aim to tackle the growing challenges of unemployment and economic uncertainty facing the youth.
Principal of PM SHRI Govt Higher Secondary School Tether Banihal, Ab Rehman Bhat, explained that the transition from simple academic events to these skill showcases is intentional. He noted that while previous events like a 'Food Festival' were successful, the Harud Festival is specifically designed to instill business acumen.
"Its sole purpose is to instil business acumen, skills, and entrepreneurship in children to develop a business mindset and teach them how to conduct business so they acquire skills. In this way, a passion for business is nurtured in children," said Ab Rehman Bhat.
The goal is clear: to ensure that as students complete their secondary or higher secondary education, they possess the tools to become self-reliant and self-employed members of society.
Real Profits, Real Lessons
The impact of such initiatives is already being felt. The school reported that in a similar exercise conducted a few months ago, students saw significant financial returns. Some students who invested as little as Rs 1,000 managed to generate returns of nearly Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,000, providing a powerful lesson in capital and profit.
The festival featured a diverse array of activities, including:
- Food Stalls: Allowing students to learn culinary management and sales.
- Craft Displays: Showcasing local artistry and handmade goods.
- Skilled Artisans: Providing direct interaction between students and professionals.
Voices from the Field: From Resin Art to Cinematography
The festival provided a stage for various talents to shine. Zeenat, a participant from Khoshipora, Anantnag, brought her creative skills to the forefront by exhibiting resin art products, flower bouquets, frames, and homemade jam. She noted that the event provided a vital opportunity to market her work and receive support from both teachers and peers.
The necessity of these platforms was echoed by Taufiq Umar, a professional videographer and cinematographer from Tetar Banihal. Highlighting the difficulty of finding traditional employment in today's competitive market, he emphasized the importance of having a fallback skill.
"In this current climate, finding employment isn't easy, which is why events like this festival in schools are held—so students who can't usually display their skills get a platform to build them," Umar remarked. He pointed out that whether it is calligraphy, crafts, or running a barbecue stall, these skills allow individuals to open their own shops even if a traditional job remains elusive.
Combating Uncertainty with Competence
Beyond the economic benefits, the organizers highlighted the psychological importance of skill development. They noted that prolonged unemployment and the uncertainty of the job market can lead to frustration and mental health struggles among the youth. By providing practical vocational skills, the Harud Festival aims to instill confidence, independence, and a sense of purpose, helping students navigate the future with resilience.