In its efforts to promote learning through new tools, the Uttar Pradesh government has introduced BaLa feature — ‘Building as Learning Aid’ — to transform the available space in Anganwadi centres into a dynamic learning environment where children can learn through play activities. This involves equipping the space in a manner that encourages active learning.
The state government is focusing on 449 Anganwadi centres, co-located on the premises of government primary and composite schools.
“Issuing instructions to all the Basic Education Officers, Director General, School Education, Vijay Kiran Anand said that a district-wise limit of Rs 1.12 crore has been issued for work related to BaLA features at the rate of Rs 30,000 per centre,” an official statement issued by the state government on August 18 mentioned.
“The release of funds should occur within the accounts of the management committee of schools where Anganwadi centres are situated. This process should align with the guidelines provided by the relevant School and Block Education Officer at the State Project Office,” the statement added.
In addition to the headmaster of the school, the nodal teacher of the concerned school and the Anganwadi workers will be included in the management committee of the schools.
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With the implementation of the BaLa features, the government aims to utilise the school environment itself as a tool for learning. This initiative encompasses both internal classroom modifications and the creation of an enriching learning atmosphere beyond the confines of the classroom.
The official statement advocates the use of graffiti on walls and pillars of the selected education spaces.
“Ludo, snake ladder, Goltara and different types of shapes like square, triangular, round etc. should be made on the verandah etc. in the open space of the school. The pillar located on the school premises can be used for different seasons, stories through pictures etc. When developing child-centric features, it is essential to align them with the learning objectives established for kindergarten and foundational literacy. In line with this approach, the interior of the room can be enhanced by painting the walls with waterproof green paint up to one metre’s height or by utilising them as blackboards, it noted.
“These surfaces can then be used for children to practise, scribbling, creating shapes, or forming words. Similarly, windows and the floor can also serve this purpose, facilitating play-based learning activities,” it added.
Furthermore, the government mentioned an open sand bed to be used by the children to make characters in clay or sand in the open space outside the classroom.
The government has also issued instructions to conduct orientation programs for the mothers to make them aware of their role in taking care of their children along with preparing them for formal education. These orientation programs will be organised in the last week of every month, starting from August 28.
“Teachers have already been given training for this. Along with the children, their mothers, school headmaster, nodal teacher, Anganwadi worker, supervisor, and senior citizens invited from the village level will be included,” the official statement mentioned.
