Surat, July 20 – In a major step toward strengthening Surat’s educational infrastructure, the city witnessed the foundation-laying ceremony for seven new school buildings under the aegis of the Surat Municipal Primary Education Committee. The ceremony, marking a significant investment of Rs. 35.47 crore, was held in the presence of BJP Gujarat State President and Union Minister of Jal Shakti, C. R. Patil.
These school buildings will be constructed across various zones including Limbayat, Rander, Varachha Zone A, and Varachha Zone B. As per agency report, the construction will add a total of 203 new classrooms, directly benefiting nearly 10,000 students. Several existing schools were previously in dilapidated condition and were operating in multiple shifts, creating discomfort for both students and teachers. The new buildings are expected to provide a modern, safe, and conducive learning environment.
Rajendra Kapadia, Chairman of the Municipal Primary Education Committee, highlighted that over 50,000 students have migrated from private to municipal schools over the past five years, with 16,000 new admissions recorded this year alone. He stated that in some areas, the number of applications is three to four times higher than available seats, reflecting growing public trust in government schools.
Mayor Dakshesh Mavani, addressing the gathering, said that under the guidance of Minister Patil, ten schools that began construction in the past 18 months are set to be inaugurated by December 2025. He also noted that Surat Municipal Corporation is the first in the country to offer education in six languages, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in line with the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam." All schools are equipped with smart boards, and 96% of Suman School students passed their 10th and 12th grade exams with a success rate of 94%.
MLA Sandeep Desai emphasized that alongside education, several key infrastructure projects such as the Dumas sea face, Tapi riverfront, railway station development, bullet train, and metro rail are making steady progress. He described Surat as one of the fastest-growing cities in the country and credited the municipality for winning several national awards in cleanliness, water management, and other civic services.
Union Minister C. R. Patil, who himself studied in a district education committee school, remarked that this initiative is not just about constructing buildings, but about laying the foundation for future generations. He affirmed that municipal schools in Surat are now equipped with sufficient teachers, modern facilities, and a focus on quality education. He also commended city officials and sanitation workers for their excellent performance in the "Swachhata Super League" and stressed the importance of water conservation awareness.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Dr. Narendra Patil, Standing Committee Chairman Rajan Patel, former Mayor Niranjan Jhanzmera, BJP Surat President Paresh Patel, officials of the education committee, committee chairpersons, teachers, corporators, media representatives, and a large number of citizens.
