Leh, May 17, 2026: Administrative Secretary, School Education Department, Ms. Bhanu Prabha today inaugurated the newly upgraded Lhachos Model School at Ney village in Leh district, marking a significant milestone in strengthening rural education infrastructure in Ladakh.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed enthusiastic participation from villagers, students, parents, and officials of the Education Department.
The Secretary was accorded a warm traditional welcome by the students dressed in traditional attire, accompanied by cultural performances featuring traditional Daman and Surna music. During her visit, Ms. Bhanu Prabha inspected the classrooms and newly constructed infrastructure of the school. The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the auspicious lamp.
In her address, Ms. Bhanu Prabha thanked the officers, teachers, parents, and villagers for their collective efforts in transforming the school. She appreciated the visible changes and progress achieved within a short span of time and emphasized that the vision behind strengthening village schools is to ensure that students remain connected with their parents, culture, values, and moral education while receiving quality academic learning.
She stated that education should provide equal opportunities to every child and should never be compromised at any level.
Highlighting the importance of community participation, she said that while the department provides infrastructure and administrative support, the responsibility of maintaining and strengthening the institution lies with the community and stakeholders. She also appreciated the Eco-Friendly Club for providing an eco vehicle for transportation of students and termed the school as one of the finest educational institutions being developed in Ladakh. She further stated that the initiative carries forward the vision of the revered Rinpoche in shaping students into responsible and capable citizens. On the occasion, she also distributed school bags among the Balvatika students of Ney School.
Addressing the gathering, youth leader of Ney village, Padma Stanzin, described the inauguration as a historic occasion for the village and termed the upgraded model school as a symbol of a brighter future for the students of the region. He appreciated the continuous support and visionary initiatives of the Administrative Secretary in improving the education sector in Ladakh. He highlighted that providing quality education facilities within the village would help students remain connected to their culture, traditions, and families while ensuring a healthy social environment. He further raised demands for a boundary wall and gate for the school and expressed hope that the department would consider the same positively. He also acknowledged the remarkable transformation witnessed in the education sector in Ladakh during the past few years under the leadership and guidance of Ms. Bhanu Prabha.
National Awardee Mr. Sonam, in his address, lauded the students for their outstanding performances and assured his support towards fulfilling the needs of the school at his level. He stated that the collective vision and support of the villagers had made the establishment of the model school possible and emphasized that village schools play a vital role in preserving culture, strengthening family bonds, and providing holistic growth opportunities to students.
Zonal Education Officer Ms. Padma Dechan appreciated the combined efforts of the village community, including the VC Chairman, Goba, Nambardar, and the Administrative Secretary, in making the upgradation of the school possible. She stressed the importance of increasing student enrolment and termed the initiative a blessing not only for Ney village but for the entire Ladakh region.
Chief Education Officer, Ladakh, Ms. Deldan Angmo, highlighted the dedication and cooperation of the villagers in upgrading the school into a model institution. She acknowledged the contribution of the land donated by the respected Rinpoche, which enabled the construction of quality infrastructure at the school. Referring to the excellent performance of students from village schools, including Stoksa, she said the achievements reflected the commitment of the teachers and the Education Department. She informed that 32 model schools have been established across Ladakh under the visionary leadership of the Administrative Secretary.
Geshe Lobzang Gelik spoke about the history of the land donated for the school and emphasized the importance of education for the welfare and development of society.
The students of the school presented colourful cultural performances showcasing their talent and rich cultural heritage, which was highly appreciated by the audience.
The programme was attended by HoD DIET, nodal officers, officials of the Education Department, village representatives, parents, and a large number of local residents.
