Srinagar, August 24 (KINS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a review meeting of the School Education Department at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar, to assess ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening the education sector and improving enrolment at the higher secondary level.
The meeting focused on improving the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) at the higher secondary stage and reviewed the phased plan to upgrade 714 High Schools into K-12 composite schools.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the requirements for teaching and non-teaching staff, infrastructure, laboratories and other essential facilities necessary for the proposed upgradation of schools.
The Chief Minister was apprised of the measures being undertaken to ensure that students completing Class 10 have continued access to Classes XI and XII within the same school or nearby educational facilities.
The proposed upgradation is aimed at strengthening continuity in school education, expanding access to higher secondary classes and addressing gaps in educational infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas.
The initiative is also expected to help reduce student dropouts at the critical transition stage after Class 10 by providing greater access to higher secondary education.
The meeting also stressed the need for effective planning and phased implementation of the upgradation programme, with adequate provision of human resources and essential infrastructure to ensure quality education for students across Jammu and Kashmir.(KINS)
CM Omar Abdullah chairs review meeting of School Education Department
