Ahmedabad Municipal School Board Greenlights Rs 1,205 Crore Budget for 2026-27
The Ahmedabad Municipal School Board has officially passed a substantial budget of Rs 1,205 crore for the upcoming financial year 2026-27. This marks a significant increase of Rs 50 crore compared to the previous year's allocation of Rs 1,155 crore, reflecting a commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and initiatives in the city.
Key Allocations and Strategic Focus Areas
During the budget presentation on Thursday, AMC School Board Chairman Sujay Mehta outlined several priority areas for funding. The revised budget includes an additional Rs 5 crore beyond the initial draft proposed by the Administrative Officer, with a strong emphasis on modernizing education and promoting holistic development.
Artificial Intelligence Education: A notable allocation of Rs 1 crore has been dedicated to introducing AI education in municipal schools. Chairman Mehta emphasized that "Artificial Intelligence is the demand of modern times," highlighting its potential to simplify complex concepts through visual aids. This initiative will provide students with AI laboratories, educational software, and quality mapping tools to ensure digital literacy and keep pace with technological advancements.
Sports Readiness Programme: With an eye on the Olympics 2036, the board has prioritized sports development by proposing Rs 10 crore for a 'Readiness Programme for Sports.' This fund aims to prepare students for athletic excellence and foster a culture of physical fitness.
Additional Educational and Cultural Initiatives
The budget encompasses a wide range of other critical projects designed to uplift the educational landscape in Ahmedabad:
- Smart School Conversion: Plans are underway to convert 54 municipal schools into smart schools, integrating technology into everyday learning environments.
- National Education Policy Implementation: A sum of Rs 30 lakh has been proposed to support the rollout of the National Education Policy (NEP), ensuring alignment with national educational standards.
- Cultural Heritage Preservation: An allocation of Rs 20 lakh is earmarked for understanding and preserving cultural heritage, promoting a sense of identity and history among students.
- Skill Development for Girls: Rs 10 lakh has been proposed specifically for skill development programs targeting girls, empowering them with practical abilities for future opportunities.
Comprehensive Funding Breakdown
Beyond these highlights, the budget includes several other allocations to address diverse needs within the municipal school system:
- Rs 40 lakh from the Sankalp Board for various resolutions and community-driven projects.
- Rs 20 lakh for Management Mantra initiatives in collaboration with the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC).
- Rs 10 crore for support activities that enhance administrative and operational efficiency.
- Rs 10 crore for scholarship schemes to support meritorious and underprivileged students.
This comprehensive budget underscores the Ahmedabad Municipal School Board's proactive approach to fostering an inclusive, technologically advanced, and culturally rich educational ecosystem. By investing in AI, sports, heritage, and skill development, the board aims to equip students with the tools needed for success in a rapidly evolving world.
