Delhi University’s iconic U-Special is all set to make a comeback after it was discontinued abruptly in March 2020, owing to the Covid-19 lockdown in Delhi. This was announced by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, here today.
It was in 1971 when the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) introduced the concept of ‘U-Special’ buses, a dedicated transport service for college students. These buses operated from various prominent localities across the city, ferrying students to major college campuses, including Delhi University’s North and South Campuses.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of the newly constructed academic block of the Social Centre School, affiliated with Delhi University, by the CM.
Addressing the gathering, Gupta announced that the long-discontinued ‘U-Special’ bus service, which once served as a lifeline for college students in Delhi, will be revived soon.
Stating that the bus service would return with modern upgrades, including air conditioning, LED lighting, and music systems, Gupta stated that it will ensure a more comfortable, accessible, and dignified commute for the university’s students.
She further proposed that Delhi University adopt selected government schools, allowing university professors and students to regularly mentor schoolchildren and contribute to their academic growth. She urged university students to serve as elder siblings to children from underprivileged backgrounds offering them guidance, support, and educational assistance to help integrate them into mainstream society.
Gupta also acknowledged the challenges students face in commuting to colleges and reiterated her government’s commitment to ensuring safe, reliable, and student-friendly transportation.
She applauded the transformation of the Social Centre School, which was established in 1947 with a mission of social service.
“Today, it stands as a modern four-storey institution with 21 state-of-the-art classrooms,” she said adding that the school will now be granted official recognition to provide education up to Class 12.
The Chief Minister also drew attention to a concerning social paradox in the education system. She observed that while parents are keen to send their children to government-run colleges and universities, they often hesitate when it comes to government schools.
“This hesitation stems from misconceptions about the quality and image of government schools,” she said. “Our government is determined to change that perception. We are transforming government schools in Delhi to exceed the standards of private institutions so much so that parents will proudly choose to enrol their children in them,” she added.
The event was attended by Delhi’s Education Minister Ashish Sood, Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Prof Yogesh Singh, Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh, local MLAs, senior officials from the university and the education department, and a large number of students.