Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo today interacted with the members of Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports (EWCY&S) who are on two day visit of Jammu and Kashmir.

During the interaction, the Minister presented a comprehensive overview of the initiatives undertaken by the Government to enhance the quality, accessibility and inclusivity of education sector across Jammu and Kashmir. She emphasized that the Government is focused on creating a robust academic ecosystem aligned with national educational priorities and global standards.

Sakeena Itoo highlighted key reforms aimed at improving academic infrastructure, promoting research and innovation, strengthening faculty development programmes and expanding digital learning facilities in schools, colleges and universities. She informed the Committee that sustained efforts are being made to modernize schools, college campuses, introduce industry-oriented courses and ensure skill-based education to improve employability among students.

The Minister also underscored the importance of equitable access to education, stating that special attention is being given to students from remote and underserved areas through scholarship schemes, upgraded facilities and enhanced connectivity initiatives.

The Members of the Committee appreciated the progress achieved in the higher education sector and held detailed deliberations on challenges, opportunities, and future strategies for academic growth. The discussion focused on improving research output, fostering innovation-driven learning, and strengthening institutional governance mechanisms.

Sakeena Itoo reiterated that the Omar Abdullah led Government remains committed to nurturing academic excellence, encouraging innovation and creating a learner-centric environment that empowers youth and contributes to socio-economic development of Jammu and Kashmir.