In a significant development for the education sector, the Faizal and Shabana Foundation has extended its transformative ‘Nadakkavu model’ to Kashmir. With the visionary goal of ‘Giving to Create Impact,’ the foundation continues its commitment to enhancing educational standards. The inauguration of the Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School (GGHSS) in Kothi Bagh, Srinagar, on July 10 marks a milestone in this endeavor. This initiative builds on the foundation’s successful collaboration with the Government Vocational Higher Secondary School (GHSS) for Girls in Nadakkavu, Kozhikode, Kerala, which began in 2013 under Project PRISM, elevating the Nadakkavu school to national prominence.

The latest project in Kashmir is part of a memorandum of understanding signed between the Jammu and Kashmir government and the Kozhikode-based foundation. The agreement aims to replicate the Nadakkavu model across government schools in the state, ushering in a new era of modernization and excellence. The inauguration event was attended by several dignitaries, including Mr. K. E. Faizal, Chairman of KEF Holdings and Co-Founder and Director of the Faizal and Shabana Foundation, Mrs. Shabana Faizal, Vice-Chairperson of KEF Holdings and Co-Founder and Director of the Faizal and Shabana Foundation, and Mr. Zach Faizal, founder of Peec Mobility. High-profile officials such as Mr. Vijay Kumar Bhidhuri, IAS, Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir; Mr. Bilal Mohi ud Din Bhat, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Srinagar; and Mr. Tassaduq Hussain Mir, JKAS, Director of School Education Kashmir, also graced the occasion.

Mr. K. E. Faizal expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “Our mission has always been to create impactful, sustainable change through education. The success of the Nadakkavu model in Kerala has inspired us to extend our efforts to Kashmir, where we believe we can make a significant difference in the lives of many students. We are committed to providing quality education and fostering a brighter future for all.”

The Nadakkavu model, which elevated GHSS Nadakkavu to one of India’s top-ranked public schools, is set to replicate similar success at GGHSS Kothi Bagh. The school’s strategic location near Dal Lake and Lal Chowk, coupled with its rich history of academic excellence and notable alumni, positions it as an ideal candidate for this transformative endeavor.

Since its establishment in 2007, the Faizal and Shabana Foundation has been steadfast in its vision of ‘Giving to Create Impact.’ The foundation recognizes that sustainable programs and positive interventions are crucial for empowering individuals and communities. Their mission is to act as a catalyst, fostering a more equitable, happier, and better tomorrow for generations to come. Over the past decade, the foundation has launched numerous sustainable initiatives and collaborated with various programs across India and the Middle East, significantly impacting lives and communities across sectors.

In education and youth intervention, the foundation provides resources and opportunities that empower the younger generation. Their efforts in regenerative sustainable development promote environmentally friendly practices, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations. Healthcare and wellness support represent another critical area, offering services and programs to enhance overall community health. During times of crisis, their humanitarian aid and assistance programs provide essential support to those in need. Community outreach initiatives engage with local communities, providing necessary resources and fostering unity and collaboration. Additionally, the foundation’s commitment to art and culture development helps preserve cultural heritage and encourages creativity through various programs and events.

The success of the Nadakkavu school has inspired the state government to reinvest in public education through the Pothuvidyabhyasa Yagnyam Mission. This mission aims to restore public trust in government schools and provide free education, echoing the foundation’s commitment to educational excellence. The Faizal & Shabana Foundation’s efforts extend beyond transforming a single school; they set a precedent for the future of public education, showcasing the profound impact of their educational initiatives.

The foundation now sets its sights on extending this transformative vision to Kashmir. Their latest project focuses on the Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School (GGHSS) in Kothi Bagh, Srinagar. Established near Dal Lake and Lal Chowk, GGHSS began as a middle school for girls in 1954, evolved into a high school in 1961, and further progressed to a higher secondary school in 1974. Historically renowned for academic excellence and vibrant extracurricular activities, the school has produced notable alumni, including doctors, engineers, writers, and politicians. GGHSS stands as a beacon of empowerment and women’s education in the Kashmir region.

This partnership represents a significant stride toward enhancing educational standards and opportunities for students in Kashmir, exemplifying the Faizal and Shabana Foundation’s commitment to creating impactful, sustainable change in education.