SRINAGAR: At least 1,900 government-run schools in Jammu and Kashmir lack separate toilets for girls, while 8.5 percent of the schools are without electricity.
Additionally, at least 184 ‘Hanging Schools’—upgraded over time without sanctioned staff—are functioning through internal arrangements.
Education Minister Sakina Itoo, in a review meeting on the availability of basic amenities such as functional girls’ toilets, drinking water, and electricity, was informed that “1,900 schools are still without separate toilets for girls and 8.5 percent schools are without electricity.”
The minister directed all Chief Education Officers (CEOs) to ensure the availability of girls’ toilets within four months. “All Heads of Institutions (HoIs) shall be designated as estate officers of their schools and will be responsible for ensuring the availability of basic facilities and the proper maintenance of institutions,” she said.
During the meeting, Itoo also reviewed the status of school buildings and infrastructure. She was informed that some schools are functioning from rented buildings due to the lack of government-owned premises.
In response, the minister directed both Directors of School Education (Jammu and Kashmir) to submit proposals for constructing school buildings within the available funds to ensure that all schools have their own premises and adequate classrooms.
“Both directors shall also share the list of building-less schools and those with deficient infrastructure with the Project Director, Samagra Shiksha, J&K, for their inclusion in the Project Approval Board (PAB) of Samagra Shiksha,” she said.
On the availability of desks, the minister was apprised that only 50 percent of schools have sufficient desks.
“Both directors of Jammu and Kashmir divisions shall assess the shortage of desks and prepare district-wise proposals for the procurement of appropriately sized desks. They shall also expedite the procurement process using available funds with the CEOs so that students do not face further inconvenience,” the minister said. (KNO)
