Udhampur: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo on Friday inaugurated the newly constructed building of Government Degree College Majalta in Udhampur district.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Ranbir Singh Pathania, Commissioner Secretary Higher Education Ram Niwas Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Minga Sherpa, senior officials, faculty members, students and local residents.
Addressing the gathering, Sakeena Itoo said the government remains committed to expanding access to quality education and strengthening educational infrastructure in far-flung areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
She said educational institutions have a vital role not only in imparting education but also in shaping character and contributing towards nation-building.
The Minister also stressed the need for creating a drug-free society and urged educational institutions to actively spread awareness against substance abuse. She called upon students to stay away from drugs and focus on education, creativity and socially responsible activities.
She highlighted the importance of counselling, awareness programmes, sports activities and community participation in tackling drug addiction among youth.
Calling the new college building a major milestone, the Minister said it reflects the government’s commitment towards strengthening higher education in remote regions.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Udhampur East Ranbir Singh Pathania reiterated his commitment towards educational development in the constituency, while Commissioner Secretary Higher Education Ram Niwas Sharma emphasised the importance of quality education and youth empowerment.
Principal Shalini Sharma presented a report on the academic and infrastructural development of the college and said the new campus would provide a modern academic environment for students from rural areas.
During the programme, the Minister also released the college newsletter, planted a sapling in the campus premises and inspected the facilities created for students.
Students presented cultural performances and a Nukkad Natak on the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan during the event.
