NEW DELHI: The proposed Nigam Shri schools by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) will focus on hiring experienced faculty, but will not necessarily handpick students based on merit or entrance exams in the initial phase, a senior official aware of the matter said. The proposal for the Nigam Shri schools has been approved by MCD’s education committee but still awaits approval from the House and the Mayor.
In the case of CM Shri Schools, which are built on the lines of the central PM Shri model and aim to provide world-class, technology-driven education to students from economically weaker sections at zero cost, admissions are conducted through an entrance examination. However, in the case of the Nigam Shri schools, this will not be the approach initially.
“We will not have the luxury of selecting children, at least as of now,” the official said, adding that the admission process will be like that of any other MCD school. However, these institutions will serve as model schools, showcasing best practices in teaching-learning processes, school infrastructure, and inclusive education.
Under this initiative, 24 existing MCD school buildings will be identified and developed as Nigam Shri schools. Two schools will be selected from each zone to maintain balance, and they will act as mentor institutions, supporting 3–5 schools in the same area through academic guidance, resource sharing, and demonstration of effective practices.
“The proposal has received the nod only from the Education Committee, and it will take around 1–2 months to get final approvals. After that, the process of setting up the schools will begin,” the senior official said. These schools will focus on foundational learning through activity-based and competency-based education, and will also emphasise accessibility for Children with Special Needs (CWSN).
Among the key features will be strengthened infrastructure, including smart classrooms, libraries, and dedicated learning spaces. Additionally, the schools will ensure the deployment of experienced teachers and strong school leadership, with continuous professional development for teachers and principals. Apart from that, there will be a focus on maintaining an optimal student-teacher ratio (1:35) and limited class sizes to improve learning outcomes. The promotion of parent and community participation will also be ensured.
However, one challenge in selecting two schools from each zone may arise in the Corporation’s City SP Zone. Officials say that schools in this zone are usually located in narrow lanes, making it difficult to identify a model Nigam Shri school.
This story has been written by Aditi Ray Chowdhury of The New Indian Express.
