Jharkhand Summer Camps: 44,000+ Schools Engage Students in 'Learn, Play, Create' Initiative

Ranchi: The Jharkhand Education Project Council (JEPC) has launched summer camps across more than 44,000 govt and aided schools in the state, aiming to keep students engaged in academic and co-curricular activities during the summer vacation while ensuring continuity in learning.

The three-day camp, which began on Tuesday, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students of Classes 1 to 12 in villages as well as urban areas. Organised on the theme “Learn, Play and Create”, the initiative combines self-learning, sports, creative expression and cultural activities to strengthen learning habits along with children’s mental and physical development.

On the first day, activities were conducted around the theme “Fitness through Play and Childhood through Creativity”. Students took part in yoga sessions, fitness drills, races, skipping, traditional games and group-based recreational activities. Several schools also organised drawing, handicraft and model-making exercises linked to local culture and folk traditions.

Officials said the programme has been designed not only to strengthen reading and writing habits but also to improve confidence, teamwork and creativity among students. Senior students are also being encouraged to guide younger children in villages and localities through peer-learning activities during the vacation period.

Dhirsen Soreng, in-charge of the physical education and sports division, said the initiative reflects the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which focuses on the holistic development of children.

“Lakhs of students from govt schools across Jharkhand are actively participating in the summer camp. Through sports, creativity and collaborative learning, the programme seeks to nurture leadership qualities, confidence, cultural awareness and a positive learning environment among children,” he said.

East Singhbhum district education officer Manoj Kumar said participation in the district was highly encouraging. “All 1,597 govt schools in the district actively participated in the summer camp activities. Students showed great enthusiasm in handicrafts, clay art, yoga and creative learning exercises. Senior students from vocational streams also conducted sessions for junior students, creating a collaborative and joyful learning atmosphere in schools,” he said.

Teachers also sensitised students about health, discipline, teamwork and active lifestyles during the sessions, while schools ensured heat-related safety precautions for children.