Srinagar, June 25 (KNS): Minister for Education, Social Welfare and Health, Sakeena Itoo, chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat today to review the performance and functioning of the School Education Department (SED) across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Secretary SED Ram Niwas Sharma, Directors of School Education for Kashmir and Jammu, senior officials from Samagra Shiksha, JKBOSE, Finance and Planning wings, and Chief Education Officers from all districts.
Minister Sakeena Itoo took a comprehensive review of key areas including learning outcomes, school infrastructure, teacher performance, and implementation of major educational schemes such as Samagra Shiksha, PM-POSHAN (Mid-Day Meal), PM-SHRI, and the New India Literacy Programme (NILP).
Emphasizing the importance of outcome-driven strategies, the Minister said, “We must prioritize learning outcomes, teacher training, digital access, and inclusive education. Every child, regardless of their socio-economic background or geographical location, deserves access to quality education.”
She highlighted the need to bridge learning gaps and called for stronger monitoring systems to ensure timely delivery of educational materials and improved performance in schools.
While reviewing enrolment trends, especially among girls and marginalized communities, she urged officers to focus on maintaining enrolment in higher secondary schools. She stressed effective implementation of the Beti Anmol scheme to encourage girls’ education.
Expressing concern over persistent challenges in remote and underserved areas, the Minister directed officials to install electricity connections and solar panels in all remaining schools within six months and ensure toilets and basic facilities are in place within four months.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Calling for a “culture of responsibility,” she said, “We cannot allow complacency to derail education. Teachers are not just government employees, they are the torchbearers of our future. Their accountability must be fixed for non-performance.”
The Minister also ordered the rationalisation of teachers, asking for a balance in staff distribution across schools. She directed all school principals to actively participate in teaching, not just administrative work.
On transfer policies, she instructed that no teacher transfers should occur at zonal or district levels without approval from the Directors of Education. Any unauthorized shifting of teacher attendance between schools must be addressed strictly, she added.
While reviewing ongoing infrastructure projects, the Minister stressed regular coordination with executing agencies to ensure timely completion, especially in regions with short working seasons.
She concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to transforming the education system in Jammu and Kashmir. “Reforms in education are not just about policy, but about ensuring our children are equipped to thrive in a fast-changing world,” she stated.
Secretary SED Ram Niwas Sharma also gave a detailed presentation on the department’s overall performance and key focus areas. (KNS)