Bandipora, Sept 11: Students of PM SHRI Government Secondary School Laharwalpora, Bandipora, recently took part in an educational exposure programme that combined heritage, architecture, science, astronomy and creativity through visits to the historic Jamia Masjid in downtown Srinagar and Sainik School Mansbal.
During their visit to Jamia Masjid, the students got an opportunity to observe the historic mosque and appreciate its architectural features. The visit also turned into a practical learning exercise when student Shoqia Altaf asked the Head of Institution about the number of pillars in the mosque.
Instead of providing the answer, the Head of Institution encouraged her to count them herself. After observing the structure, she returned with an estimate of 364 pillars, just 14 short of the stated correct figure.
The students later visited Sainik School Mansbal, where they were introduced to astronomy and scientific observation.
A key highlight was an informative session on the Cassegrain-type telescope conducted by Mujtaba Sir. His observation that “The light rays contain information” captured the students’ attention as they learned how telescopes help in scientific observation.
During a practical demonstration, the students observed sunspots through the telescope, giving them an opportunity to connect concepts studied in textbooks with direct observation.
The students also visited the Astrophysics Lab, Art Gallery and Auditorium at Sainik School Mansbal, gaining exposure to science, technology, art and institutional learning environments.
The school expressed gratitude to the Principal and staff of Sainik School Mansbal for their hospitality and arrangements, including refreshments for the visiting students and staff.
Muneer Ahmad delivered the welcome address on behalf of Sainik School Mansbal, while Mehraj-ud-din Bhat presented the vote of thanks on behalf of PM SHRI Government Secondary School Laharwalpora.
Special appreciation was extended to Altaf Hussain Mir for his initiative and coordination, which the school said contributed significantly to the programme.
Javaid Jawad, Head of Institution, PM SHRI Government Secondary School Laharwalpora, accompanied the students throughout the visit and supervised the programme.
The school said the initiative was aligned with the objectives of NEP 2020 and experiential learning, with emphasis on curiosity, critical thinking, observation and scientific temperament.
The programme, it said, provided students an opportunity to learn beyond conventional classroom settings by encouraging them to observe, question and discover independently.
