In a landmark event celebrating the spirit of cross-border collaboration and philanthropy, the newly transformed Middle School Block at Government Girls Higher Secondary School (GGHSS), Kothibagh was launched by Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, with Mr. Faizal E. Kottikollon, Chairman, UIBC-UC and Mrs. Shabana Faizalas a part of the DREAM School Project, a flagship initiative of the Faizal & Shabana Foundation (FSF).
The event was attended by senior government officials, business leaders, and dignitaries from both India and the UAE. Distinguished guests included Mr. R. N. Sharma, Secretary, School Education Department, J&K; Dr. Itoo, Director General, School Education, Kashmir; Dr. Aman Puri, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs; Amb. Sunjay Sudhir, former Indian Ambassador to the UAE; Maj. Gen. Sharafuddin Sharaf (Retd.), Vice Chairman, UIBC-UC and Sharaf Group UAE; Mr. Akram Thumbay Moideen, Thumbay Group; Mr. Ajmal Habeeb, Yenepoya Group; and Mr. Moidu K.E., PK Group. Representing the core UIBC-UC team were Kshitij Korde, Head of Corporate Affairs; Neha Sahni, Research & Operations Specialist; and Simar Kaur, Research Coordinator.
Bringing the success of Kerala’s acclaimed Nadakkavu Model to the heart of Kashmir, the DREAM School represents a transformative approach to public education, integrating modern infrastructure, progressive pedagogy, and community participation. Implemented under FSF’s PRISM framework, which has already revitalized over 900 government schools across India, the project seeks to redefine learning outcomes and inspire educational excellence. Lt. Governor Shri Manoj Sinha extended his heartfelt appreciation to Faizal, Shabana, and the Faizal & Shabana Foundation for its vision and commitment, calling the initiative a “shining example of how design, innovation, and empathy can elevate education to global standards.”
The inauguration also marked the launch of the UIBC-UC research paper, “Bridging Horizons: UAE–India Partnership and the Future of Education-Led Development.” The paper highlights education as a driver of socio-economic growth and explores how philanthropy, CSR, and knowledge exchange between India and the UAE can strengthen educational ecosystems, particularly in regions such as Jammu & Kashmir. The event underscored how public–private partnerships and cross-border collaboration can deliver sustainable, large-scale educational impact.
The newly inaugurated Middle School block features smart classrooms, IT-enabled learning spaces, and a digital library designed to enhance digital literacy and student engagement. More than 90 teachers from Kashmir and Kerala have participated in FSF’s specialized training programs, fostering professional excellence and cultural exchange. To ensure sustainability, dedicated project offices have been established at both the Directorate of School Education and the Kothibagh campus, ensuring effective monitoring and long-term governance.
Beyond the classroom, the initiative symbolizes a shared commitment between India and the UAE to invest in human potential and community development. Discussions between Mr. Kottikollon and Hon’ble Lt. Governor Shri Manoj Sinha also explored further cooperation in healthcare, education, and holistic wellness through initiatives like the Tulah Wellness Sanctuary. As the school opens its doors, it stands as a beacon of innovation, unity, and hope, demonstrating how philanthropy and international partnership can turn a vision of education-led empowerment into lasting social transformation.
