Govt. Schools Hold “The Best and Most” Student Talent : Education Minister Sakina Itoo

Suhail Khan 

Baramulla, Oct 20: Education Minister Sakina Itoo affirmed that government schools are home to the most abundant and exceptional student talent.

Speaking at the Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Baramulla as per Kashmir Convener, the Minister expressed her delight at the potential she witnessed. “I will not talk much about education to the students here today because I am so happy seeing the talent seated before me. These students are our future, they are the future of Jammu and Kashmir,” she stated.

She emphasized that this caliber of talent is evident across all disciplines. “Whether it’s students who have become IAS or KAS officers, those who have qualified for NEET, or the students who have created projects here after listening to and discussing these projects, I can say with conviction that government schools have the most and the best talent. There is no doubt about it.”

Minister Itoo noted that such talent often goes underappreciated. “However, we must recognize and acknowledge this fact. At times, we tend to favor the private sector and credit it for merits it may not even possess, while we do not sufficiently appreciate the talent that exists within our own government schools.”

Addressing the students directly, she said, “When you graduate from these institutions and become doctors, professors, engineers, or even politicians, we are confident that you will make the most significant contributions to Jammu and Kashmir.”

The Minister also highlighted the accomplishments of young women. “In today’s world, our daughters are leading in every field and Inshallah will continue to be at the forefront. She said we all must work hard and progress collectively. We can only move forward through dedicated effort. I am proud that in our religion, it is said that a house illuminated by the birth of daughters is filled with light. This is why we affirm that the daughters of Jammu and Kashmir are currently excelling and progressing the most.”

She added that in her visits across the education department, it is consistently noted that girls have achieved the top examination scores.

Reflecting on the Kashmir’s resilience, she said, “Jammu and Kashmir has faced many difficulties, and it is commendable how all of you have progressed and advanced despite those challenges.”

Minister Itoo also recalled a more challenging era for education. “We have seen a time when there were calls to close schools and restrict education. However, our religion teaches us to go anywhere to seek knowledge you must acquire learning.”

She also praised the efforts of the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, stating that the reforms witnessed in the education sector over the past year may surpass those of the previous decade. “Whether in infrastructure, the rationalization of resources, or other systemic improvements, significant progress has been achieved this year.”

She further added with a firm commitment: “The NC government will not rest until it has further strengthened the education system.”