Baramulla School launches heritage museum to connect students with history

Professor Zahoor Ahmad examines historical items at the newly established museum in Government Boys Higher Secondary School Baramulla in North Kashmir. -Excelsior/Aabid Nabi
Professor Zahoor Ahmad examines historical items at the newly established museum in Government Boys Higher Secondary School Baramulla in North Kashmir. -Excelsior/Aabid Nabi

Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Dec 20: In an effort to connect students with the cultural and heritage of Kashmir, the Government Boys Higher Secondary School in Baramulla has implemented a novel idea of setting up a museum in the school.

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This museum houses a collection of various old items, including agricultural equipment, lighting tools, household items, indoor game kits, and pre-and post-Indian coinage. These artifacts, fading away with time, represent ancient tools and equipment that were once used by the people of Kashmir.
Zahoor Ahmad Rather, the senior lecturer of history, said that this initiative is the first of its kind at the school level in Jammu and Kashmir. “All the ancient items displayed are contributions from history students in grades 11 and 12, as well as the institute’s staff. The collection process spanned approximately two years, involving gathering items from various sources,” he said.
He expresses gratitude to the staff and principal for their cooperation in making the museum a reality. He urges other schools to initiate similar projects, encouraging the community to donate old items for future generations.
Moreover, he emphasises that the museum serves as an attempt to preserve and raise awareness among students about their local cultural heritage. He believes that such museums should be established in every educational institution to help students understand the evolution of development. “Once winter vacations conclude, the general public and students from other institutions will be permitted to visit the museum,” he said.
Uzair Bin Hilal, a student, highlights the importance of the museum for history students. He said that the school has put old items that have deteriorated over time, such as coins, on display. “The students collected various historically significant items and dedicated them to the museum. This issue is important in preserving local history,” he said.
Principal of School, Bashir Ahmad Malla said that it is an attempt to make young students aware about their rich culture and legacy of ancestors.
“In the next ten years, this will be the best institute of J&K,” he said, adding that there will be a proper action plan for the general public.
“We will issue proper timing for public visitors. If they wish, they can visit along with their families,” he said.