LEH: Emphasising that the idea of a model school must extend beyond upgraded infrastructure to encompass the overall development of students, Administrative Secretary, Higher Education Department, UT Ladakh, Bhanu Prabha, IAS, inaugurated the newly upgraded Ladakh Model Boys Higher Secondary School in Leh and urged students to remain focused on academics amid growing distractions.
Addressing a gathering of students, teachers, parents and community members, the senior official said educational institutions designated as model schools must evolve into centres of excellence capable of providing innovative and holistic learning opportunities. She underscored the need for nurturing academic competence alongside character, discipline and broader personal development.
The inauguration marked the formal transition of the erstwhile Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Leh, into a Model Government Boys Higher Secondary School, a move aimed at enhancing the quality of education and expanding learning opportunities for students in the region.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished alumni and eminent personalities, including Padma Shri awardee Chewang Phuntsog (Retd. IAS), former Chief Secretary of the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir State; Padma Shri Dr. Tsering Norbu, retired Physician Specialist; Padma Shri Tsering Norphel, widely known as the “Ice Man of Ladakh”; and noted educationist Ishey Paldan (Retd.).
Earlier, Principal Tsering Norbu welcomed the gathering and outlined the institution’s vision, achievements and future roadmap. He acknowledged the support extended by the Administration of Ladakh, the Education Department and other stakeholders in facilitating the school’s upgradation. Reaffirming the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, he said the school would continue to uphold high standards in education, discipline and co-curricular engagement.
In his address, Chewang Phuntsog stressed the importance of time management and consistency in achieving success. Reflecting on the broader purpose of education, he highlighted the role of language in shaping intellectual growth and expanding professional opportunities.
The event also featured cultural performances by students, offering a glimpse into Ladakh’s rich cultural traditions and heritage. The performances drew appreciation from the audience and added a celebratory dimension to the occasion.
With the inauguration of the upgraded institution, the school begins a new phase in its academic journey, carrying expectations of strengthening educational outcomes while serving as a model for student-centred learning in the Union Territory.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Thupstan Tsering.
