Release funds for schools hit by monsoon rains: Minister

Education Minister Rohit Thakur has directed Deputy Directors of Education Department to release funds to Himachal Pradesh Housing and Urban Development Authority (HIMUDA) for reconstruction and repair of the buildings of educational institutions which sustained damaged during monsoon. The minister said 1,411 educational institutions sustained damage of around Rs 126.73 crore in the state during this monsoon season. The minister also directed HIMUDA officials to expedite the reconstruction and repair works for the convenience and safety of children.

Presiding over a review meeting of the department here today, the minister said the state government was taking significant steps to enhance the quality of education and to prepare students to meet future challenges. He further said that the government was establishing Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding Schools, which will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, in every Assembly constituency. Construction work is underway at 42 locations across the state at a cost of Rs 94.46 crore. “These schools are being developed to ensure the holistic development of students and will include smart classrooms, libraries and sports facilities,” he said.

He further informed that the state government had decided to introduce the CBSE curriculum in 100 schools, out of which 45 have already got affiliated. “Subject-specialist teachers will be appointed in these schools to provide quality instruction,” he said.

The Education Minister further said that the availability of adequate teaching staff was being ensured to deliver quality education to every child. He directed Deputy Directors to conduct regular reviews of schools during the academic session and pay special attention to schools with results below 25 per cent. “Teachers should conduct extra classes to improve students’ performance,” he added, emphasising that accountability will be ensured for teaching staff in schools with poor results.

The minister also directed officials to expedite disciplinary action against teachers found guilty of harassing students in educational institutions. A review was also held to explore ways of reducing the non-academic workload of teachers. Deputy Directors have been asked to submit their suggestions within ten days to simplify these processes.