Chief Secretary Mohyuddin Wani had asked his education department to make a comparative analysis of 2021 and 2022 students enrolment in Baltistan division. They were also tasked to find out the key reason behind the addition or reduction in enrolment along with any data on transfer of students from private schools to public schools.
It was found that there were a total of 8973 new admissions in government schools in 2022, out of which 2259 students shifted from private sector. This is good news on both fronts i.e., general increase in enrolment and increased preference of parents for public schools over private schools.
One key reason behind this change is induction of 270 new teachers in May after three years of ups and downs in recruitments. The teachers were selected on merit and majority were working in private schools and so, they brought experience and students along with them.
According to the administration of G-B, next year will see more radical results after introduction of following school meals programs, establishment of Technology labs and libraries in all middle and high schools, induction of 200 technology fellows to teach computer education, mandatory sports facilities in schools, mandatory public speaking classes by best debating coaches, transformation of all higher secondary and intermediate schools into smart schools with blending learning opportunities and many more.
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District administration Skardu is also currently in the process of making Gilgit Baltistan’s first ever educational institute for the blind and a technical/vocational center for the disabled. GB boasts a sizable population of blind and disabled individuals, most of whom are devoid of opportunities for growth and empowerment.
AC Skardu, Abrahim Shah, has raised all funds for the project and is executing it. GB government has provided land and will own and run the project.
The setup promises to empower individuals marginalized in society and aims to provide them with an avenue for growth and empowerment.
The project is slated to be complete by the 5th of September.