SRINAGAR: Sakeena Masood Itoo, Minister for Education, Social Welfare, and Health and Medical Education, chaired the Higher Education Department (HED) ‘s first review meeting on Tuesday at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar.
She emphasized the government’s commitment to student well-being and overall development as a top priority.
During the meeting, the minister conducted a review of the department’s achievements, challenges, and ongoing efforts to improve education outcomes, research, and infrastructure development. She also discussed the progress on filling vacant posts.
Highlighting the importance of aligning with global standards, Itoo urged officials to prioritise the needs of students and expedite work on various projects. She called for the completion of 51 under-construction colleges and sought inputs on the feasibility of establishing new institutions.
Regarding the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation process, she instructed officers to prioritise necessary actions to ensure all colleges in Jammu and Kashmir meet accreditation requirements. She also addressed concerns about the annual transfer drive, encouraging timely communication with students to avoid confusion.
In addition to reviewing the department’s digital initiatives and budget plans for 2024-25, the minister discussed hostel facilities, directing the expedited construction of three girls’ hostels in Bemina, Kupwara, and Pulwama degree colleges.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Commissioner Secretary HED, Special Secretary HED, Director Finance, and Nodal Principal of Colleges Kashmir.
