Education sector in upbeat mood --- what they say

Ludhiana, June 20

While everyone seems to be unhappy over the state Budget announced by the Congress government today, the education sector seems to be in upbeat mood after the announcements.

Finance Minister Manpreet Badal in the Budget today announced to allocate Rs 10 crore for providing computers in primary schools, Rs 21 crore for providing furniture in primary schools, free Wi-Fi in 48 government colleges and opening of five new degree colleges.

“Allocating Rs 21 crore for furniture at primary government schools is a welcome step. Students of government schools are forced to sit in the open and study. The step taken to provide basic infrastructure is in a good direction,” said a teacher working at a primary government school.

Ravneet, a college student, was all excited after the announcement of free Wi-Fi facility in government colleges. “I am a medical student and there is a lot of work to be done at home such as making projects, etc. During the free period, we sit idle but cannot work since my Wi-Fi is not portable. Now I will be able to work on my projects at the college as I carry my laptop with me and free Wi-Fi will be available at the college itself,” she said.

Opening of five new degree colleges got a mixed response. Some were happy over the announcement while some educationists were of the opinion that instead of opening new colleges, stress should have been laid on upgrading the existing infrastructure at colleges. — TNS