Pilot initiative aims to train teachers as mentors using technology, with focus on basic literacy and numeracy
Lucknow, April 16: The Uttar Pradesh government has launched the ‘Nipun Shikshak Sarathi’ programme as part of efforts to improve the quality of primary education and strengthen the implementation of the NIPUN Bharat Mission at the grassroots level.
The initiative is being rolled out as a pilot project in five districts—Chitrakoot, Sonbhadra, Balrampur, Gorakhpur, and Sitapur—with a focus on supporting underperforming schools and improving classroom learning outcomes.
Focus on Teacher-Led Transformation
The programme is designed to position teachers as key drivers of change by equipping them with mentoring skills and continuous academic support. Under the initiative, 15 members of the State-Level Reference Group (SRG) have been trained to guide teachers using technology-based tools.
These mentors will maintain regular communication with teachers, offering real-time support and helping address classroom challenges more efficiently.
Emphasis on Foundational Skills
A key focus of the programme is strengthening foundational literacy and numeracy, particularly for students in early grades. Special attention is being given to improving language and mathematics skills in Class 2, which are considered critical for long-term learning outcomes.
Officials said activity-based and level-specific teaching methods will be encouraged to make learning more engaging and reduce academic pressure on students.
Use of Technology for Continuous Support
The initiative seeks to increase interaction between teachers and mentors through digital platforms, enabling frequent and structured communication. This approach is expected to reduce reliance on physical monitoring visits while ensuring consistent academic guidance, especially in remote areas.
Government’s Education Push
Minister of State for Basic Education (Independent Charge) Sandeep Singh said the programme aims to expand the role of teachers beyond curriculum delivery, positioning them as mentors who contribute to students’ overall development.
He added that improving education quality remains a priority for the state government and described the initiative as a significant step in that direction.
Context: NIPUN Bharat Mission
The NIPUN Bharat Mission, launched by the Government of India, focuses on achieving universal foundational literacy and numeracy among children by Grade 3. State-level initiatives like ‘Nipun Shikshak Sarathi’ are intended to support this goal through targeted interventions.
Public Impact
If successfully implemented, the programme could improve learning outcomes in government schools, particularly in underserved and aspirational districts. Enhanced teacher support and focus on foundational skills are expected to benefit students in their early academic years.
Conclusion
With its emphasis on teacher empowerment, technology integration, and foundational learning, the ‘Nipun Shikshak Sarathi’ programme aims to address key gaps in primary education and strengthen the overall quality of schooling in Uttar Pradesh. (With inputs from H.S.)
Inputs & Images courtesy: Hindusthan Samachar (H.S.)
Edited by: Dikshita Bollu
Last Updated on: Thursday, April 16, 2026 11:20 pm by Bollu Dikshitha | Published by: Bollu Dikshitha on Thursday, April 16, 2026 11:20 pm | News Categories: India
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