In a significant development for Uttar Pradesh's educational landscape, Dheeraj Sahu, Additional Secretary of the Union Ministry of Education, conducted a comprehensive review of centrally sponsored schemes in Lucknow on Friday. Expressing satisfaction with the implementation progress, Sahu highlighted the need for enhanced efficiency in fund utilization to bolster educational outcomes across the state.
Accelerating Expenditure for Educational Schemes
Chairing a detailed assessment of the Samagra Shiksha and PM SHRI Yojana initiatives, Sahu urged state officials to expedite the pace of expenditure for the allocated funds. This move aims to ensure that financial resources are effectively channeled to improve infrastructure, teacher training, and student support systems, thereby maximizing the impact of these flagship programs.
Upgrading Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas
During the meeting, Sahu emphasized the importance of upgrading Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, which play a crucial role in promoting girls' education in rural and underserved areas. This directive aligns with the government's broader goal of enhancing educational access and quality for marginalized communities, fostering inclusive growth and empowerment.
Operationalizing Key Institutions and Programs
Sahu stressed the urgency of making the Netaji Subhash Chandra residential school operational at the earliest. Additionally, he called for special attention to be given to the PM Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN) and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) programs, which are designed to uplift tribal communities through targeted educational interventions.
Innovative State-Led Initiatives
Director General of School Education, Monika Rani, presented an overview of the progress in basic and secondary education schemes. She highlighted several innovative programs initiated with the state government's budget, including:
- Operation Kayakalp
- Chief Minister Model Composite School
- CM Abhyudaya School
- Project Alankar
- Dream Lab
Furthermore, Rani introduced the newly proposed School Quality Assessment and Accreditation Framework, a strategic framework aimed at systematically evaluating and enhancing school quality across Uttar Pradesh. This initiative underscores the state's commitment to fostering a robust educational ecosystem through continuous improvement and accountability.
The review meeting underscored a collaborative effort between central and state authorities to streamline educational schemes, with a focus on timely implementation and quality enhancement. By addressing key areas such as fund utilization, infrastructure development, and community-specific programs, the initiatives aim to create a more equitable and effective educational system in Uttar Pradesh.