Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, conducted a high-level review meeting at the Civil Secretariat today to evaluate the performance and progress of various educational initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting gathered key officials from the School Education and Higher Education Departments to discuss ongoing projects and set actionable goals.
The review included notable attendees like Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department, Shantmanu, and Secretary School Education, Ram Niwas Sharma, along with other senior officials. Their insights contributed to a comprehensive assessment of developmental initiatives, infrastructure projects, and academic reforms being implemented across the region.
Minister Itoo placed a strong emphasis on the timely execution of projects, particularly those related to infrastructure development, digital learning, teacher training, and curriculum enhancement. The focus was clear: accelerate the ongoing efforts under prominent initiatives like Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) and the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA).
During her address, the Minister stressed the importance of adhering to quality standards while completing college construction projects. She urged all involved parties to eliminate any bottlenecks to ensure smooth implementation of projects.
Addressing the challenge of faculty shortages, she instructed the Higher Education Department to explore options for enhancing remuneration for teachers on academic arrangements. This measure aims to attract skilled professionals until permanent vacancies are addressed. Additionally, officials were instructed to create sanctioned posts for newly established degree colleges, facilitating effective operations.
In reviewing the School Education Department, Minister Itoo highlighted the critical need for digital transformation in classrooms. She called for expedited efforts to install smart classrooms, ICT labs, and e-content facilities, especially in rural and remote areas, thus addressing educational disparities.
The Minister urged Chief Education Officers (CEOs) to effectively utilize Samagra Shiksha funds and maintain collaboration with project-executing agencies. Such coordination is crucial for the timely completion of educational infrastructure projects.
She also mandated the appointment of a Nodal Officer in each district to coordinate activities with the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) ensuring timely vigilance clearances. Furthermore, she directed CEOs to submit monthly progress reports to their Heads of Departments for transparency and accountability.
Lastly, Itoo underscored the necessity for an early finalization of proposals related to the de-freezing of teacher posts, essential for bolstering the teaching cadre throughout Jammu and Kashmir. Her comprehensive review embodies a commitment to elevating educational standards in the region.
