Maharashtra's first PPP-model ZP school is opening in the 'Land of Phule'

A historic step is being taken in the education sector in Maharashtra. The state's first Zilla Parishad (ZP) school operating under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model is set to launch this Saturday in Khanwadi, Pune district. This very village is the birthplace of the great social reformer, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule. The new school is not only the state's first PPP-model ZP school, but it is also the first ZP school in Pune district to be affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education.

This is not only news about the opening of a new school; rather, it represents a major initiative aimed at promoting equity in education. In particular, the plan to provide free, quality education spanning from Kindergarten through Class XII to children from economically disadvantaged families is truly significant. In my view, initiatives such as this have the potential to chart the course for the future of the education system.

The new school was inaugurated this Saturday in Khanwadi village. Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Sunetra Pawar were present at the ceremony. Many other distinguished personalities were also in attendance. This school is unique because it offers: Maharashtra's first PPP-model ZP school, Pune district's first CBSE-affiliated ZP school, education ranging from Kindergarten to Class XII, and free education for economically disadvantaged families. In my opinion, this marks a new direction for government schools.

This inauguration is taking place during the celebration of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule's birth anniversary. Throughout his life, Phule championed the cause of education for the common people, women's education, and equality. Therefore, the establishment of such a modern school in his birthplace holds significant importance. The administrative control of the school will remain with the Zilla Parishad. However, a special expert committee has been constituted to oversee daily operations and maintain educational standards.

This project has been realised through a unique collaboration, wherein local villagers donated land, architects and consultants worked pro bono, and infrastructure was built using CSR funds. This demonstrates that, when society wills it, it can collectively achieve great things for the cause of education. In the initial phase, approximately 260 students from neighbouring villages will benefit from this school.
Furthermore, there are plans to introduce residential facilities in the future for meritorious students from across the district, starting from Class VI.