In a powerful and inspiring session under the Punjab Government’s School Mentorship Programme, Sangrur Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Rishi visited the School of Eminence, Government Model Senior Secondary School, Bajwa Kalan, near Shahkot, on Saturday. Speaking to students of classes 10, 11, and 12, he urged them to dream ambitiously, work hard, and face challenges with courage and resilience.
“You are the architects of your own destiny,” Mr. Rishi told the students, emphasizing the value of ambition, focus, and persistence. Encouraging them to aim high and not be discouraged by setbacks, he said, “Failures are not the end—they are stepping stones on the journey to success.”
Drawing inspiration from India’s freedom fighters and martyrs, he encouraged students to honour their sacrifices by striving for excellence. “These heroes gave everything for the country’s freedom. As the future of India, it is your responsibility to carry forward their legacy by building a stronger and brighter nation,” he said.
During the interactive session, Mr. Rishi also shared personal stories from his journey to becoming an IAS officer, motivating students to reflect on and share their own aspirations. The students expressed a wide range of dreams—from becoming IAS and IPS officers to doctors, scientists, artists, soldiers, cricketers, fashion designers, makeup artists, air hostesses, and news anchors.
He assured students of his continued support, asking them to write down their goals for discussion during future sessions. “Share your dreams with me, and together we will find a way to achieve them,” he said, instilling a sense of trust and mentorship.
Mr. Rishi also made it clear that students could reach out to him directly if they encountered any difficulties in their academic or personal lives.
School Principal Harpreet Singh Sondhi, along with faculty members, was present at the session. On the occasion, the school also felicitated academic toppers from classes 8, 10, and 12 for their outstanding performance.
About the Mentorship Programme
The Punjab Government has recently launched a unique initiative called the School Mentorship Programme aimed at inspiring and guiding students in government schools by connecting them with civil servants. Under this initiative, senior bureaucrats serve as mentors—regularly visiting schools to engage with students, offer career counselling, and nurture ambition.
The mentors will also facilitate exposure visits, encourage innovative teaching methods through teacher training, enhance parental involvement, and support creative educational experiments. The programme is designed to deliver measurable outcomes and to bridge the gap between student aspirations and real-world opportunities, ultimately improving the overall learning environment.
