Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo chaired a high-level review meeting today at the Civil Secretariat, assessing the progress of ongoing projects in the School Education and Higher Education Departments across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting aimed to ensure that educational initiatives proceed efficiently and meet rigorous quality standards.
The gathering saw participation from key officials, including Additional Chief Secretary of Higher Education Shantmanu, Secretary of School Education Ram Niwas Sharma, and Director General of School Education Kashmir Dr. G.N. Itoo, among other senior representatives from various educational sectors.
During the review, the Minister thoroughly evaluated critical development strategies, focusing on infrastructure projects and academic reforms being executed throughout J&K. She emphasized the need for timely execution of significant initiatives like Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) and Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA).
Itoo directed executing agencies to prioritize the completion of college construction projects within the agreed timelines, insisting on strict compliance with quality regulations. Field inspections and monitoring became focal points of the discussion, with the aim of identifying and resolving any implementation challenges.
The meeting also addressed issues related to faculty shortages. The Minister urged the Higher Education Department to consider increasing remuneration for temporary academic staff to attract qualified professionals until permanent vacancies are filled. Additionally, Itoo instructed officials to ensure sanctioned posts for every newly established degree college.
In terms of primary education, the Minister underscored the importance of digital transformation. She directed a swift rollout of smart classrooms, ICT labs, and e-content facilities, particularly in rural and remote areas, as vital steps to narrow the learning gap.
Furthermore, Itoo called upon Chief Education Officers (CEOs) to use Samagra Shiksha funds judiciously, maintaining synchronized efforts with project implementation bodies for the early completion of works.
Itoo pushed for the appointment of a Nodal Officer in each district to anchor coordination with the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to secure timely vigilance clearances. She mandated that CEOs submit monthly progress reports to their respective Heads of Departments, promoting accountability.
In wrapping up the meeting, the Minister focused on expediting the finalization of proposals for de-freezing teacher posts. This initiative aims to enhance recruitment and strengthen the teaching workforce across Jammu and Kashmir.
