It was the year 1999 when 600 students stepped into a newly established school in Raniganj, in the Paschim Bardhaman District of West Bengal. There were 14 classrooms and a modest team of 21 teachers.
Walk into the Raniganj Lions Jasoda Devi Maliram Chanani DAV Public School today, and you’ll find a vibrant community of 2,170 students, with a near 100 strong team of educators and support staff. The school spans three blocks across 3.12 acres, housing modern science laboratories, computer labs with the latest technology, and more than 60 classrooms, including 36 smart classrooms where traditional teaching meets digital innovation. The once-basic playground is today a full sports complex where children chase their sporting dreams – from football to kho-kho, from taekwondo to table tennis.
Yes, this permanent project of Raniganj Lions Club, District 322C3 is all about transformation.
Not only has the school evolved and grown over the years, it has changed the educational landscape of the region. And most importantly it has changed the course of life for its students.
Former students have excelled in diverse fields from healthcare and finance to legal and engineering. And while the alumni make their mark in their chosen careers, current students bring home medals from national sports meets and earn recognition in various competitions.
The School recently received two coveted honours:
- The Telegraph Education Foundation’s Telegraph School Awards For Excellence – 2024
- The International Dimensions in School Award (2022-2025) by the British Council, India
The transformation continues, evident in the school’s expanding vision. The introduction of Bal Vatika following NEP 2020 guidelines, expanding STEM programs, environmental stewardship initiatives, and continuous updating of digital resources show a school evolving to prepare students for an increasingly complex world.
~ With inputs from Manjeet Singh
Chairperson, Lions Club Raniganj Eye Hospital
Cabinet Secretary 2023-2024
