Kozhikode:All that these students, who had travelled all the way from Kashmir, wanted to know was how Kerala achieved complete literacy, and how every child here makes it to school. And C Gireesh Kumar, Principal of Nadakkavu Government Girls Vocational Higher Secondary School, responded to all their questions in this regard by explaining Kerala’s cultural heritage and educational background.

Students and teachers from Kashmir visited Kozhikode to learn about the PRISM Project, which has transformed general education in Kerala. The group from Kothi Bagh Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Srinagar included five students each from Plus One and Ninth Standard, led by teachers Mariam Akbar, Humaria Shah and Sheikh Sahoor. Their visit was part of a cultural exchange programme organised by the Faisal and Shabhana Foundation, which has partnered in implementing the PRISM Project at Nadakkavu Girls School.

The Faisal and Shabhana Foundation, is a Dubai-based charitable organisation founded by Kozhikode natives Faisal Kottikolon and wife Shabhana, The Foundation is currently working to upgrade the Kothi Bagh Girls Higher Secondary School along the PRISM model. Development activities worth ₹20 crores are nearing completion, with the first phase set to be inaugurated on October 27.The objective is to provide comprehensive and quality education to students in Kashmir.

As a prelude to this initiative, the teachers and students visited the model Nadakkavu school to gain first-hand insights. They were received by Principal Gireesh Kumar, Faisal and Shabhana Foundation Group Project Manager Roshan John and programme coordinators Akeeshma and Adnan. The Foundation is also exploring the possibility of a return visit by students and teachers from Kozhikode to Kothi Bagh.

The group visited Karapparambu School and the Corporation Office. They also met Mayor Beena Philip. Today, the team is scheduled to visit Mittayitheruvu, Kadalundy Bird Sanctuary and Thula Clinical Wellness.