Jammu and Kashmir’s Education Minister, Sakeena Itoo, convened a high-level review meeting to assess ongoing education projects on October 25, 2023, at the Civil Secretariat. This meeting aimed to evaluate the performance and progress of initiatives undertaken by the School Education and Higher Education Departments.
Notable attendees included Shantmanu, Additional Chief Secretary; Ram Niwas Sharma, Secretary School Education; Dr. G.N. Itoo, Director General School Education Kashmir; and senior officials from various departments. The gathering focused on key developmental initiatives, infrastructure projects, and academic reforms.
During the meeting, Itoo conducted a comprehensive evaluation of significant projects under the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) and Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA). She underscored the importance of timely execution across various sectors, emphasizing initiatives related to infrastructure development and digital learning.
“Quality monitoring and timely completion of projects are crucial for the education sector’s growth,” the Minister asserted, calling for rigorous monitoring and field inspections. Itoo directed agencies to finalize all college construction projects within stipulated timelines, ensuring strict adherence to quality standards.
The Minister highlighted the pressing issue of faculty shortages within the Higher Education Department, urging a review of the possibility to increase remuneration for temporary academic staff until permanent vacancies are filled. Furthermore, she instructed officials to create sanctioned posts for newly established degree colleges, facilitating smooth operational structures.
In addressing the digital transformation in classrooms, Itoo focused on the importance of installing smart classrooms, ICT labs, and e-content facilities, especially in rural areas. She recognized the existing learning gaps and demanded expedited actions to bridge them.
Directing Chief Education Officers (CEOs) to utilize funds from the Samagra Shiksha scheme effectively, Itoo emphasized close coordination with executing agencies to foster early project completion.
Additionally, she announced the appointment of a dedicated Nodal Officer in each district to liaise with the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for timely vigilance clearances. CEOs must submit monthly progress reports to their designated Heads of Departments, ensuring accountability and transparency.
Itoo concluded the meeting by highlighting the need for the swift finalization of proposals related to defreezing teacher posts. She stressed the importance of timely recruitment to strengthen the teaching cadre across Jammu and Kashmir.
