Omar Abdullah announces plan to upgrade 714 schools in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has outlined a strategic roadmap to improve the region's education sector, focusing on infrastructure upgrades and school accessibility.

As part of a phased plan, the government intends to upgrade 714 high schools into K-12 composite schools. This initiative aims to improve the Gross Enrolment Ratio at the higher secondary level and reduce student dropout rates following Class 10, particularly in remote and underserved areas. The plan involves addressing requirements for teaching and non-teaching staff, laboratories, and essential facilities.

Speaking at an education conference organized by the J&K Teachers Forum, Abdullah emphasized that the responsibility for student success must be shared by the government, parents, and teachers. He acknowledged existing deficiencies in school infrastructure, noting that some schools currently operate in unsafe buildings or rented accommodations. The Chief Minister committed the administration to filling staff vacancies and addressing infrastructure gaps to support educators.