After 24 years of persistence, Druk Padma Karpo School, famously known as "Rancho's School" from the iconic film 3 Idiots, has finally secured CBSE affiliation. Located in the cold desert of Ladakh, this school has long been admired for its innovative teaching methods, far ahead of its time, even before the National Education Policy (NEP) pushed for such reforms.
Founded in 1998, Druk Padma Karpo School had been affiliated with the Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education (JKBOSE) but faced significant hurdles in obtaining the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) from JKBOSE. Despite having excellent infrastructure, impressive academic results, and a modern approach to education, the school struggled to gain CBSE recognition for years.
Principal Mingur Angmo shared that the school had been working towards the CBSE affiliation even before Ladakh became a Union Territory. "We had been trying for years, and now, with CBSE onboard, we are preparing for the first batch of Class 10 students to sit for the CBSE board exams," she said. Looking ahead, the school plans to expand up to Class 12 by 2028, with ongoing efforts to train teachers to smoothly transition to the CBSE curriculum.
Druk Padma Karpo School’s teaching methods differ significantly from traditional classroom setups, making it an exciting prospect as the CBSE itself undergoes reforms under the NEP. "Our methods of teaching were different from traditional classroom teaching, and with the CBSE also reforming its pedagogy, it will be easier for us to blend both," said Angmo.
The school also continues to be a popular tourist destination, largely thanks to 3 Idiots. The famous "Rancho's Wall," where the memorable electric shock scene was filmed, still stands, though relocated in 2018 to maintain focus for students. Tourists can occasionally visit the school to witness its activities, like the recent mock elections teaching students about democracy.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
