Srinagar: Education Minister Sakeena Itoo on Monday said education remains central to the social and economic development of Jammu and Kashmir and called for continued efforts to strengthen the sector through collaboration between government and private institutions.
Addressing the Foundation Day celebrations of Maple Grove Education Institute at Rawalpora, Srinagar, the minister said both government and private educational institutions are contributing to the delivery of quality education, while noting that some private institutions have made a significant contribution to the sector.
She said several government schools are performing well but added that there is scope for further improvement. According to the minister, the focus should remain on providing better educational opportunities and creating an environment that supports academic growth.
Itoo said education should promote the overall development of children by nurturing values, character and a sense of responsibility alongside academic learning. She also stressed the importance of ensuring equal opportunities for all students irrespective of their social or economic background.
Referring to her interaction with students during the programme, the minister said she was encouraged by their career aspirations, including ambitions to become doctors and public representatives.
She urged educational institutions to foster academic excellence, ethical values, inclusiveness and leadership qualities among students, saying that the younger generation will play a key role in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir.
Director School Education Kashmir, senior officers of the School Education Department, school management, teachers, students and their families attended the function.
