A team of students and teachers from Kothi Bagh Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Srinagar, Kashmir, traveled to Kozhikode to understand how Kerala became a model of educational excellence and achieved near-total literacy. Their primary interest was in the transformative educational practices implemented in Kerala and how every child in the state attends school, a unique feature that sets Kerala apart from much of India.
The PRISM Project – Kerala’s Innovative Model
Kerala’s educational success is closely tied to pioneering programs like the PRISM Project, which completely revamped the general education system in select model schools, including Nadakkavu Government Girls Vocational Higher Secondary School in Kozhikode. The visiting team was eager to see first-hand how this project evolved, improving infrastructure, teaching methodology, inclusivity, and access for all children. The visit was part of a cultural exchange program by the Faisal and Shabhana Foundation a Dubai-based philanthropic trust founded by Kozhikode natives Faisal Kottikolon and Shabhana. This foundation is now working to upgrade the visiting Kothi Bagh School in Kashmir by replicating the PRISM model, with development investments nearing ₹20 crores and a major phase of improvements set to be inaugurated soon.
The Learning Experience
During their stay in Kozhikode, the Kashmiri delegation visited several iconic educational and civic locations:
- Nadakkavu Government Girls School, where they experienced Kerala’s education ethos.
- Karapparambu School, Corporation Office, and meetings with local civic leaders like Mayor Beena Philip.
- Cultural excursions to Mittayitheruvu, the Kadalundy Bird Sanctuary, and Thula Clinical Wellness for a broader sense of Kerala’s heritage and community life.
Broader Goals and Future Collaboration
The purpose of the visit wasn’t limited to learning from Kerala but also included forging future connections. The organizers are exploring a return visit, where students and teachers from Kerala will travel to Kashmir to encourage ongoing educational dialogue and cooperation.
Significance of the Exchange
This cross-regional collaboration symbolizes India’s diversity in education and shows how shared learning experiences can uplift communities and improve system-wide practices. The PRISM-inspired reforms in Kashmir aim to provide similar opportunities and outcomes for students in the Valley.
Read more at: https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2025/10/14/kerala-literacy-kashmir-students.html
