Ludhiana: Nearly two years after the Punjab govt launched its ambitious ‘Schools of Happiness’ project to transform govt primary schools into child-friendly learning spaces, only four of the 35 identified schools in Ludhiana district have been completed, with officials citing staggered release of funds as a key reason for the delay.The project, launched in 2024, aims to create vibrant campuses with colourful classrooms, upgraded gates, dedicated play areas, computer labs and improved infrastructure to make learning more engaging for primary students. Most of the selected schools are located in rural areas, where authorities also hope the makeover will help boost enrolment in govt schools.The four schools completed so far are at Galwadi, Govindgarh, Ghalib Kalan and Bhattian. The remaining 31 schools across blocks including Doraha, Jagraon, Khanna, Machhiwara and Samrala are still at various stages of implementation.Officials said each school’s transformation is estimated to cost around Rs 40.4 lakh. However, grants have been released in instalments rather than in a lump sum, slowing the pace of work.District coordinator of the Smart School Project Anil Matharoo said the initiative was still under progress. “Funds are being released gradually for all schools. We expect the remaining projects to be completed within the next six months,” he said.Deputy district education officer (primary) Manoj Kumar said the projects were being monitored by block primary education officers and other education department officials. He maintained that work was progressing and would be completed once all schools receive the required funding.
