The Office of Deputy Commissioner Lunglei, in collaboration with the School Education Department, Lunglei, today inaugurated Lunglei’s Cosmic Classes, Mizoram’s first-ever Astronomy Labs, along with a series of educational initiatives designed to strengthen learning outcomes and ensure inclusive education in Lunglei District and Lungsen Aspirational Block.
Dr Vanlalthlana, Minister of School Education, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The Minister inaugurated the Cosmic Classroom at Government Leitlangpui High School, Lunglei, and subsequently launched Cosmic Classrooms at Higher Secondary School, Lungsen, and Government Middle School, Tlabung through virtual mode.
At the programme held at the Conference Hall, School Education Complex, Lunglei, the Chief Guest launched several initiatives initiated by the Office of Deputy Commissioner Lunglei, including Learning Bridges (QR Code), the Book Nest Initiative, the English Language Foundation (ELF), Project Period Pride, and Money Wise (Financial Literacy Campaign). He also distributed bicycles to Out-of-School Children under the Learning Bridges Programme (supported by Disha Foundation), book sets under the Book Nest Initiative, and science laboratory equipment provided by the Directorate of School Education to designated schools and examination centres.
The programme was attended by Lunglei HPC Vice Chairman & Lunglei North MLA V. Malsawmtluanga, Lunglei South MLA Lalramliana Papuia, Lunglei West MLA T. Lalhlimpuia, LMC Chairman Lalzuithanga, along with dignitaries, government officials, teachers, VC/LC and NGO representatives, church leaders, political party leaders, media personnel, and students.
In his address, Dr Vanlalthlana lauded the District Administration and the School Education Department, Lunglei, for their efforts in strengthening educational opportunities. He noted that these initiatives align with the National Education Policy 2020 and the State Government’s vision of providing quality, inclusive, and equitable education for all. He expressed hope that the programmes launched would bring meaningful transformation to students across Lunglei District.
Deputy Commissioner of Lunglei, Navneet Mann, highlighted that the initiatives form part of a holistic approach to education encompassing academics, science, health, financial literacy, and life skills. She emphasised the need for continued community participation to ensure the success and sustainability of these programmes.
Highlights of Key Initiatives Launched:
1. Cosmic Class:
Mizoram’s first Astronomy Labs have been established at Lunglei, Lungsen, and Tlabung, spearheaded by the District Administration, Lunglei, in collaboration with the School Education Department, Lunglei, and AstroScape, New Delhi. Cosmic Class aims to nurture curiosity and scientific spirit among students through interactive lessons on stars, planets, galaxies, and space exploration.
2. Learning Bridges (QR Code):
A community-driven initiative to identify and bring back Out-of-School Children. Special QR codes displayed in public areas allow citizens to report dropout cases, enabling timely intervention by authorities.
3. Book Nest Initiative:
A campaign to collect and distribute reusable textbooks and storybooks to government schools in Lungsen Aspirational Block. YMA branches lead collection drives in Lunglei town, while SHG workers under NULM handle sorting and compilation. The top five YMA collectors and SHG teams will be recognised and rewarded.
4. English Language Foundation (ELF):
A foundational learning programme implemented with Disha Foundation to enhance English proficiency—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—among primary school children in Lungsen Aspirational Block. The Education Department serves as the execution agency, with funding from the District Administration, Lunglei.
5. Project Period Pride:
An awareness and empowerment initiative for adolescents aimed at breaking taboos surrounding menstruation, promoting menstrual hygiene, creating a supportive environment, and fostering confidence among young girls.
6. Money Wise (Financial Literacy Campaign):
A campaign jointly organised by the District Administration, District Education Office, and local financial institutions under the guidance of the Lead District Manager and BDO Lungsen. The programme teaches students essential financial skills, including savings, budgeting, digital banking, and responsible spending.
With these initiatives, Lunglei District becomes the first in Mizoram to establish Astronomy Labs and pioneer comprehensive programmes integrating science, language, health, financial literacy, and community-driven educational support.
These efforts aim to ensure that no child is left behind while preparing students to become knowledgeable, confident, and responsible citizens.
