Talent of children in J&K unprecedented: Sakeena Itoo

Srinagar, May 1: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo Friday felicitated the top performers and achievers of ALOHA GAT-2025 at SCERT Bemina here, organized to recognize and celebrate academic excellence and competitive spirit among students.
Director School Education Kashmir, Naseer Ahmad Wani; Director, Centre for Good Governance, IUST, Dr. G.N Itoo; Joint Director School Education (Central), CEO Srinagar, senior management of ALOHA Srinagar, large number of students and parents were also present on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister said that this unique test is not only about intelligence but it also depicts various instincts of a students life. “This exam does not only show your capabilities, but it sheds light on various extents of a child or student. It strengthens mental arithmetic, analytical thinking, concentration and overall cognitive development among students.”, the Minister stated.
The Minister further said that there is a lot of talent in Jammu and Kashmir among children. “For one and a half years, I am looking after education department and I would not hesitate to say that the level of talent in our children is unprecedented. They need to be given a chance and way to move forward, they will create opportunities”, she said.
Congratulating the achievers, the Minister emphasized on the importance of such competitive platforms in nurturing talent at an early stage and preparing students for future academic challenges. “Activities like ALOHA GAT not only enhance numerical ability but also instil confidence, speed and accuracy, which are prime qualities essential for success in modern education systems,” she said.
The Minister further said that students who in one way or other remain little behind in these kind of exams need to equally felicitated like toppers, as it is also an achievement to be able to attend an exam and be part of it.
Sakeena Itoo reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting innovative learning methods and co-curricular activities that complement formal education. She noted that the integration of skill-based assessments aligned with national and international competitive standards plays a crucial role in shaping well-rounded individuals.
The Minister further said that Government is working to make better future for our students. “There is a lot of effort from government level so that the way in which the children move forward, we can make it easier for them”, she stated.
The Minister also appreciated the role of teachers, trainer and parents in guiding and motivating students to achieve excellence. She encouraged students to continue striving for higher goals and make productive use of such platforms to sharpen their abilities.
During the event, the Minister distributed certificates and mementos among meritorious students for their achievements.