Music education gains momentum in West Champaran govt schools

Bettiah: Education in govt schools of West Champaran is now blending with the rhythm of music, as 2,726 primary, middle and high schools in the district are promoting learning through musical activities under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. Musical instruments, including harmoniums, tablas and others, have been provided in schools, enabling students to gain basic training in music along with their regular studies.According to official data, the district has 1,551 primary schools, 900 middle schools and 336 high schools, including minority and project institutions.Under the supervision of trained teachers, students are learning to play the harmonium, practise tabla rhythms and participate in group singing. The initiative has not only increased students’ interest in music but also improved their creativity, concentration and confidence.Teacher Sudhir Kumar said music education was positively influencing children’s mental development and making them more engaged in studies. The initiative has generated enthusiasm, particularly in rural areas where students earlier had limited exposure to such activities. Now they are actively participating in music classes and preparing for cultural programmes, making the school environment more vibrant.District education department’s nodal officer Shekhar Kumar Sinha said 2,372 primary schools have been provided 10 types of instruments (14 units), while 336 secondary and higher secondary schools have received 11 types (27 units). Eighteen selected schools, on the other hand, have been equipped with full band sets comprising 13 types of instruments (47 units).He added that music education is helping inculcate discipline, patience and teamwork among students. “The aim of Samagra Shiksha is not just academic learning but overall personality development. Activities like music play a crucial role in making children creative and self-reliant,” he said.Officials said the programme would be expanded further with special focus on training music teachers. The department believes the initiative will help nurture hidden talent and improve enrolment and attendance in govt schools.