Jammu: DDC Chairman reviews performance of education department  

Calls for involvement of DD Councilors in planning, execution process of dev works

JAMMU, SEPTEMBER 09: District Development Council Chairman, Bharat Bhushan, conducted a comprehensive review of the  education sector in the district.

 Vice Chairman, Suraj Singh and DDC members present in the meeting, deliberated on the progress and challenges faced by the education sector under various schemes, notably the SAMAGRA initiative.

Addressing the assembly, DDC Chairman Bharat Bhushan emphasised the pivotal role of education in propelling progress. He lauded the remarkable advancements achieved in the district’s educational landscape over recent years, highlighting local students’ outstanding achievements on national and international levels. He emphasised the need for prompt acknowledgment and action on concerns raised by DDC members and public representatives. Bharat Bhushan underscored the importance of incorporating DDC members’ insights into all development plans, including those falling under the purview of SAMAGRA.

During the meeting, the Chairman identified several pressing issues, including staff shortages and infrastructure inadequacies in certain schools. He directed the Zonal Education Officers to conduct thorough inspections within their respective zones and submit detailed reports addressing these school shortcomings. He also stressed the importance of strategically posting teachers within easy reach of their designated schools, while advocating for a comprehensive review of the transfer policy to benefit both students and teaching staff.

The meeting’s agenda also included planning and executing regular visits to local schools by education department officials for consistent performance assessments. The Vice Chairman, along with other DDC members, echoed the Chairman’s sentiments regarding the necessity of collaborative development with DDC members’ active involvement.

Key concerns raised in the meeting revolved around staff shortages, inadequate sports facilities and ageing infrastructure. Notably, the JK Smart Attendance Application by SAMAGRA received praise for its role in enhancing staff punctuality in schools. The Chairman also oversaw the improvements in teacher attendance and overall board examination results over the past few years.

Chairman Bhushan made note of vacant positions, including those of Zonal Education Officers, Headmasters, Teachers and non-teaching staff, emphasising the urgency of filling these positions to ensure efficient operations within the education sector.

The meeting commenced with a presentation by the Chief Education Officer, providing valuable insights into the current educational landscape within the district. Among the attendees were Additional District Development Commissioner Ramesh Chander, Chief Planning Officer, Yoginder Katoch; Zonal Education Officers, besides Zonal Education Planning Officers and others.