Minister for Education, Syed Muhammad Altaf Bukhari, today sought people’s cooperation in the implementation of far-reaching initiatives brought in by the government to take the education sector in the State to new heights.

The Minister was interacting with various deputations comprising Education Department officials, civil society members and political representatives from parts of Kashmir and Jammu regions who called on him here today to discuss the issues pertaining to educational activities in their respective areas.

Referring to the fresh reforms, the Minister said time is ripe for taking the State’s education system to new heights of excellence with the help of all stakeholders. He said “No parent can compromise on the education of his children and every one of us needs to extend his/her contribution to make educational institutions of the state hub of quality education.” He called upon teaching fraternity and heads of institutions to strictly follow the academic Calendar and keep strict check on outside interference that may affect the class work of the students.

The Minister sought the cooperation of people from all walks to ensure that the educational activities are not disrupted in any case. He particularly stressed on keeping educational institutions away from any issues having political implications. “We need to understand that education should not suffer in any circumstances, because it is concerned to the future of our youth” he asserted.

The Minister also assured to solve all outstanding issues of teaching fraternity and said the government is doing everything to restore the dignity of the teacher. “You take best care of students and we are here to take care of your issues” the Minister assured.

Education Minister informed that state government has already set in motion the process to solve chronic issues of teaching fraternity both associated with school and higher education. He said the issue of SSA salaries, which was hunting the department for a long time, is being sorted out earnestly. The funds to pay two month salary have already been released, he reiterated and assured the remaining dues would also be released in due course of time.

“As per commitment we have set in the process of clearing the dues of SSA teachers by managing funds on our own, till centre releases the funds. Hopefully remaining dues will also be paid in near future” the Education Minister said. He said the problem faced by the teachers working under SSA due to non-payment of salaries is a serious concern and government would use all means to solve this issue.

The Minister also informed the deputations about the steps taken to create infrastructure for several new educational institutions being established in state and upgrading that of existing ones.

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