A Unique Educational Institution in the Himalayas

SECMOL School is a unique educational institution located in Ladakh which is in the northernmost region of India. This School is widely known for its innovative teaching methods and a very sustainable approach to education.

SECMOL which stands for “Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh” was founded in 1988 by a group of young Ladakhis, including Sonam Wangchuk. These Ladakhi youths were very dissatisfied with the state of education in their region.

Sonam Wangchuk has played a vital role in establishing SECMOL and securing its place of uniqueness in the field of education. On a personal front, Sonam Wangchuk is a well-known education reformer, innovator and social entrepreneur.

Today, SECMOL is a well-respected school not only at the national level but also has earned international recognition for its approach to education.

SECMOL School is built on the principles of sustainability, community, and innovation. Some of the features which make it unique are that the school operates on solar power and has its own organic farm, which supplies the school with fresh produce.

The school also emphasises community engagement and encourages students and teachers to work together on community projects thereby contributing towards the improvement of the lives of the people in the region.

The school’s innovative teaching methods focus on experiential learning, where students learn by doing things practically and experience the outcomes and are greatly encouraged to be creative and independent thinkers.

Some of the unique aspects that we can list down are a Student-led Approach to education, Emphasis on the importance of cultural education, and encouragement of hands-on experience.

One such program called ‘The school’s Student Solar Engineers Program’, has gained international recognition, and teaches students how to design and build solar-powered products, such as solar cookers and heaters. This program is run and managed entirely by students.

As part of the cultural education, students learn about the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh, including traditional music, dance, and handicrafts. The school widely promotes the use of the Ladakhi language by incorporating it into the curriculum as it is at risk of disappearing.

Recognition

SECMOL School has gained international recognition for its innovative approach to education. Dignitaries such as former US President Bill Clinton has visited the school and has received awards from organisations such as UNESCO and the Government of India. SECMOL plays a major role in inspiring similar schools in other parts of the world.

Who can Join?

SECMOL School is open to all students who have completed their 10th-grade education. The school welcomes students from all over India and the world, regardless of their background, religion, gender or nationality. However, with only a limited number of seats available each year the school’s admission process is highly competitive and selective.

The school seeks to admit students who are passionate about sustainability, innovation, and community engagement, and who are willing to work hard and take responsibility for their own learning. One can visit the school’s website for more information on the application and admission process and criteria.

How to reach?

SECMOL School is located in Phey village, which is about 15 kilometres from Leh, the capital of Ladakh in northern India.

SECMOL can be reached by air as one can take a flight to Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport from major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a shared taxi to reach the school.

Alternatively, Leh is also reachable by road from major cities in India such as Delhi, Chandigarh, and Srinagar. There are regular bus services and taxis available from these cities to Leh. Once in Leh, one can take a taxi or shared taxi to reach SECMOL School in Phey village.

Being a high altitude desert it is advisable to check the weather and road conditions before planning a trip to Ladakh. During certain times of the year, the region is prone to heavy snowfall and landslides.

Conclusion

SECMOL School is a unique educational institution that stands out for its sustainable approach to education, innovative teaching methods, and emphasis on community and cultural engagement. Its focus on practical skills gives students the tools they need to succeed in their future careers. With its success, SECMOL School serves as an inspiration to other educational institutions in India and around the world.