Infrastructural gaps persist in schools as projects await execution, completion
Srinagar, Oct 14: Government schools in Jammu and Kashmir continue to struggle with infrastructural gaps as projects sanctioned under centrally sponsored schemes are moving at a slow pace, delaying the completion of school buildings.
Every year, the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Ministry of Education sanctions new schools and additional classrooms to strengthen infrastructure. However, delays in execution prevent students from accessing even basic facilities.
The government’s promises to bring reforms in the education sector, highlighted in its election manifesto, have yet to materialise on the ground. Buildings sanctioned years ago remain incomplete, leaving students—particularly in primary sections—crammed into overcrowded classrooms, affecting the quality of education.
Despite claims of a comprehensive approach to school and higher education, there has been little infrastructure improvement. The government had pledged to modernise schools, upgrade buildings, and introduce smart classrooms equipped with up-to-date technology and resources, but significant progress has yet to be seen.
With the onset of winter, the issue of inadequate school infrastructure has resurfaced. Past experiences show that the lack of basic facilities often forces the government to announce early winter vacations, as was the case last year. Many classrooms still suffer from broken windows, damaged doors, and poor ventilation.
“Every year, the issue of inadequate infrastructure comes to light, and we end up announcing early winter vacations as a temporary solution,” a senior official of the School Education Department told Greater Kashmir.
Over the years, the SED has faced criticism for flawed execution of projects. Several years ago, it surrendered over 600 surplus school buildings to other government departments, while schools with growing enrollment continue to face acute shortages of classrooms. Numerous school buildings remain unattended and unused, even as students lack basic facilities.
A national survey conducted last year revealed that 66.4 percent of class 4 students in J&K share classrooms with more than one class, while 72 percent of class 2 students face similar overcrowding.
The government had declared 2022 and 2023 as the ‘Year of Academic Transformation,’ but tangible improvements in school infrastructure remain elusive. Experts point to the lack of basic facilities and haphazard construction as major factors contributing to declining student enrollment.
Education Minister Sakina Itoo acknowledged the challenges, noting that funds released under Samagra Shiksha for strengthening school infrastructure have been poorly utilised.
“All the funds remained largely unutilized. We are trying to improve school conditions step by step. We cannot solve the problem overnight, but we are gradually working to strengthen infrastructure and provide better facilities for students,” she told Greater Kashmir.
