Shahkot: In a heartfelt and motivational interaction under the Punjab Government’s School Mentorship Program, Sangrur Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Rishi on Saturday inspired students at the School of Eminence, Government Model Senior Secondary School, Bajwa Kalan, near Shahkot. Addressing students of classes 10th, 11th, and 12th, Rishi urged them to dream big, work hard, and overcome challenges with determination and resilience.
“You are the architects of your own destiny,” he told the students, stressing the importance of ambition, focus, and perseverance. Encouraging them to set bold goals and remain undeterred by obstacles, he said, “Setbacks are not failures; they are stepping stones to success.”
Drawing inspiration from India’s freedom fighters and martyrs, Rishi called on the students to honour their legacy by striving for excellence. “These heroes sacrificed everything for our nation’s freedom. You, as the future of India, must channel that same courage and commitment to build a stronger, brighter nation,” he said.
In an engaging and interactive session, Rishi shared personal anecdotes from his own journey to becoming an IAS officer and encouraged students to share their aspirations. Students expressed dreams of becoming IAS and IPS officers, doctors, scientists, artists, army personnel, cricketers, fashion designers, makeup artists, air hostesses, and news anchors.
The Deputy Commissioner promised continued mentorship, asking students to write down their goals for their next meeting and assuring them of his personal support. “Share your dreams with me, and together, we will chart the path to make them come true,” he said, fostering a spirit of trust and guidance.
He also assured students that they could reach out to him directly if they faced any obstacles in their educational or personal lives.
School principal Harpreet Singh Sondhi and staff members were present during the interaction. On the occasion, the school also honored the academic toppers of classes 8th, 10th, and 12th for their achievements.
About Mentorship Program
The Punjab government has recently launched a distinctive initiative called the School Mentorship Programme, designed to inspire and guide students in government schools by connecting them with civil servants. As part of the programme, bureaucrats will act as mentors—frequently visiting schools to engage with students, provide career counselling, and foster ambition.
These mentor officers will also support exposure visits, teacher training in innovative teaching methods, increased parental involvement, and the piloting of creative educational ideas. The programme is structured to be outcome-oriented, with a strong focus on enhancing the overall learning environment and bridging the gap between students’ aspirations and real-world opportunities.
