By: Dr. Azra Mufti
It was truly an honor to be invited to the Literary Fest organized by RP School Nagbal, with the inspiring theme “Scroll Less, Read More.” The school, known for its commitment to delivering education par excellence, has made its mark as a beacon of quality education in the valley. I had the privilege of inaugurating this week-long festival, where students from various schools came together to showcase their talents, bringing to life their favorite literary characters in a celebration of reading and creativity.
Nestled in the Gratbal, Nagbal area of District Ganderbal, RP School is about 10 kilometers from Kashmir University, Hazratbal. Though still in its development phase, the school boasts impressive infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities that support both academics and extracurricular activities. Established on May 11, 1990, the school has a 27-year legacy, having evolved from a modest co-educational primary school in Mala Bagh, Srinagar, to a high school after just eight years of its inception. The management’s dedication to providing students with the best possible education and exposure is truly commendable.
As I walked through the festival, I was struck by the vibrant atmosphere. Various stalls, each set up in different corners of the school, displayed a range of books from multiple genres. Students with a passion for literature could be seen exploring reading corners, delving into novels, poetry, and nonfiction. It was delightful to see students enthusiastically embodying characters from the literary world—some were dressed as Harry Potter characters, while others took on the personas of Dr. Faustus, characters from Little Women, and Alice in Wonderland. Watching them speak so confidently and with such depth was immensely satisfying.
In addition to the literary showcase, I was also given a tour of the school’s newly established S.T.E.M. lab. This innovative space, focusing on AI and drone technology, demonstrated the school’s forward-thinking approach to education and the importance they place on preparing students for future advancements.
The festival, running until the 14th of September, remains open to all, inviting book lovers and curious minds alike. Events like these should be organized in every school, as they play a crucial role in cultivating a love for reading and learning among students. Such initiatives not only nurture creativity but also foster a deeper engagement with literature, inspiring the next generation to broaden their horizons beyond the digital screen.
The writer works with Indian Institute of Management Jammu and is based in Srinagar Campus