World · India Bureau
Girl students appointed as district magistrate, school principal for a day
In a confidence-building initiative under Mission Shakti Phase-6, students in Uttar Pradesh's Fatehpur district were given leadership roles typically held by senior administrators. The programme aimed to empower young girls by exposing them to positions of authority and responsibility.
LSN India ·

Students from classes 4 and 5 at a government primary school in Astti village, Fatehpur district, were appointed as district magistrate and school principal for a day as part of Mission Shakti Phase-6. The initiative provided the young girls with an opportunity to understand the responsibilities and challenges associated with administrative roles in education and district governance.
During their tenure, the student appointees heard complaints and grievances from their peers and community members, gaining firsthand insight into the nature of public administrative work. The exercise exposed them to decision-making processes and the importance of addressing concerns at the grassroots level.
The programme was designed to boost confidence among schoolgirls and inspire them to consider leadership roles as they progress in their education and careers. By allowing young girls to experience positions of authority, organisers hope to challenge traditional gender stereotypes and demonstrate that women are equally capable of holding positions of responsibility in governance and education.
Mission Shakti, a government initiative focused on women's safety and empowerment, has been running in phases across multiple states. The Fatehpur programme represents one of several efforts under the scheme to engage with girls in schools and build their aspirations for leadership roles across various sectors.