Baramulla: Minister for Health & Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Saturday visited Baramulla and inaugurated the newly constructed Science Block at Government Degree College Women Baramulla, while also laying foundation stones for several key infrastructure projects in the district.
The Minister was accompanied by MLA Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig, MLA Uri Sajad Shafi, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla S.F. Hamid, Director Higher Education, and other senior officers from the district administration.
At GDC Women Baramulla, the Minister formally inaugurated the newly constructed Science Block. Addressing a large gathering, she said that the Omar Abdullah-led government remains firmly committed to public welfare, equitable development, and empowerment of every section of society through quality education and improved institutional infrastructure.
She emphasized that education is the strongest pillar for building a progressive and prosperous society and highlighted that the government is focused on ensuring that students, particularly girls and those from marginalized communities, receive better opportunities, facilities, and academic support.
Highlighting the significance of the new facility, she said the Science Block will significantly enhance the academic capacity of the college by providing modern laboratory facilities, improved classroom spaces, and a stronger platform for science education among female students.
“The inauguration of the Science Block is expected to significantly enhance academic infrastructure and provide improved laboratory and learning facilities to students, particularly encouraging greater participation of women in science education. Our Government remains committed towards creating an enabling educational environment where every student can thrive. We are determined to bridge gaps in access, infrastructure, and opportunity,” she said.
Speaking on women’s education, Sakeena Itoo described women as the true torchbearers of society and said they are second to none in any field of life.
“Women are the backbone of families and communities. They are leaders, creators, educators, and changemakers. When we educate and empower women, we strengthen the entire society. Our daughters are capable of achieving the highest milestones, and it is our responsibility to provide them with every possible support,” she said.
Acknowledging that women continue to face difficulties in society, she urged girl students to come forward and choose fields as per their aspirations, adding that women in Jammu and Kashmir have already proven their mettle by holding high positions and contributing to decision-making on key matters of public welfare.
The Minister also condemned the use of abusive language against women on social media platforms, stating that it reflects the failure and weakness of those indulging in such behavior.
“I am open to discussions and criticism but use of foul language on platforms like Facebook is unacceptable. If you want to have a discussion, you can do it with me. You can discuss it with the MLAs of the government,” she said.
On the occasion, Principal of the college, Prof. Neelofar Bhat, presented a detailed report on the institution’s functioning and achievements. The Minister also released the Annual College Magazine “SONZAL” of GDC Women Baramulla.
MLA Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig also addressed the gathering and highlighted various developmental achievements of the government.
Later, the Minister laid the foundation stone for a Drug De-Addiction Centre at Government Medical College Baramulla. The facility will provide specialized treatment, counselling, and rehabilitation services to individuals affected by substance abuse, in line with the government’s anti-drug initiative Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir.
She also laid the foundation stone for an Autopsy/Mortuary Centre at GMC Baramulla, which will help streamline medico-legal procedures and improve overall efficiency of healthcare services in the region.
In the education sector, the Minister laid the foundation stone for an ST-PG Hostel at Government Degree College Boys Baramulla to provide residential facilities for students belonging to Scheduled Tribes, thereby ensuring better access to higher education.
Additionally, she laid the foundation stone for a 100-bedded Girls Hostel at the same college, aimed at addressing accommodation challenges and promoting women’s education by creating a safe and supportive environment for female students pursuing higher studies.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure in both education and healthcare sectors, Sakeena Itoo emphasized inclusive growth and improved service delivery.
She stated that all the infrastructure projects for which foundation stones were laid will be completed within stipulated timelines and will play a vital role in enhancing accessibility, quality, and equity in essential public services across the district.
