‘Educational infra backbone of social, economic progress’

Kulgam, May 23: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo Saturday visited DH Pora Kulgam and inaugurated Primary School at Satrajan Bangiward.
She also laid foundation stone for construction of Additional Classroom (ACR) building at Government Middle School (GMS) Bangiward.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment towards upgrading educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in rural and far-flung areas. She emphasized that quality infrastructure is essential for creating a conducive atmosphere for effective teaching and learning.
“Strengthening education sector and ensuring access to quality education in far-flung and underserved areas is what our Government strives for”, she stated.
The Minister underlined that the educational infrastructure forms the backbone of social and economic progress and the government is prioritizing the development of schools across Jammu and Kashmir.
The Minister said that the inauguration of the Primary School at Satrajan Bangiward will significantly benefit local students by providing better academic facilities closer to their homes, while the additional classroom block at MS Bangiward will help improve the overall learning environment and accommodate increasing student enrolment.
Emphasizing the importance of holistic educational development, she directed the concerned officers to ensure timely completion of all ongoing educational projects and maintain high standards in implementation.
Later, the Minister held a massive Public Darbar at Bangiward, where people from various adjoining areas projected a range of public issues and developmental demands. Residents highlighted concerns related to road connectivity, drinking water supply, healthcare facilities, electricity, school infrastructure and other civic amenities.
Sakeena Itoo gave a patient hearing to the grievances and assured the public that all genuine issues would be addressed in a phased and time-bound manner. She directed the concerned officers to take immediate action on pressing matters and ensure better public service delivery at the grassroots level.
The Minister emphasized that public outreach programmes and direct interaction with people are essential for responsive governance and help bridge the gap between the administration and the public. She added that the government remains committed to equitable development and inclusive progress across all regions.
During the interaction, several delegations and individuals also submitted memorandums highlighting local developmental requirements. The Minister assured them that their concerns would be examined on priority in coordination with the concerned departments.
Locals, parents and school staff appreciated the initiatives and expressed gratitude to the government for addressing the educational and infrastructural needs of the area.