Srinagar: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo on Thursday felicitated top performers of ALOHA GAT-2025 at a function held at SCERT Bemina, celebrating academic excellence and competitive spirit among students.
The event was attended by Director School Education Kashmir Naseer Ahmad Wani, Director Centre for Good Governance IUST G. N. Itoo, Joint Director School Education (Central) and CEO Srinagar, along with senior officials of ALOHA Srinagar, students, and parents.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister said the ALOHA GAT examination is not merely a test of intelligence but a platform that reflects various dimensions of a student’s abilities. She highlighted that such assessments help strengthen mental arithmetic, analytical thinking, concentration, and overall cognitive development.
“There is immense talent among children in Jammu and Kashmir. They just need the right opportunities and direction to move forward and create their own paths,” she said.
Congratulating the achievers, Itoo underscored the importance of competitive platforms in nurturing talent at an early stage and preparing students for future academic challenges. She said initiatives like ALOHA GAT enhance numerical skills while instilling confidence, speed, and accuracy among students.
She also emphasized that students who may not secure top positions should equally be encouraged, noting that participation itself is an achievement and an important step in learning.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to promoting innovative learning methods, the Minister said skill-based and co-curricular initiatives aligned with national and international standards are crucial in shaping well-rounded individuals. She added that sustained efforts are being made to create a more supportive and enabling environment for students.
The Minister also appreciated the role of teachers, trainers, and parents in guiding students towards excellence and encouraged students to continue striving for higher goals.
On the occasion, certificates and mementoes were distributed among meritorious students in recognition of their achievements.
