In an inspiring and insightful address, Dr. Ranoj Pegu, Honorable Education Minister of Assam spoke directly to teachers across the state from the Tele-Education central studio in Guwahati, highlighting the critical role they play in shaping the future. This virtual gathering brought together educators from all districts, after the summer vacations.
The LIVE session was telecast to Tele-Education Schools, Analytics Powered E-Classrooms, Smart Classrooms and on E-Class app. Teachers from nearby schools also attended the program in these schools.
Here are the highlights from the Honorable Education Minister’s speech:
1) Testing uniforms in the laboratory to ensure that students receive high-quality clothing.
2) Rating the quality of uniforms for the upcoming Gunotsav.
3) A scholarship test was scheduled for students in class 5 but was canceled due to COVID-19. However, a new scheme for this scholarship is forthcoming.
4) Class 10 students who scored 75% or more will receive the Anandaram Barooah Award.
5) Last November, the Honorable Chief Minister of Assam announced that the Anandaram Barooah Award would also be given to students in classes 8 and 5. In the upcoming academic year, a scholarship test will be held for students in class 5, with 10,000 students being awarded the Anandaram Barooah Award. The same will apply to class 8. These steps aim to attract students to schools and improve the gross enrollment ratio.
6) Last year, 3,69,000 bicycles were distributed to class 9 students. This initiative was in response to issues faced by students after the consolidation of schools, particularly with transportation.
7) A new upcoming scheme named ‘Nijut Moina’ aims to prevent child marriage. The scheme includes:
a. Girls enrolled in class 11 will receive Rs 1,000 per month for 10 months.
b. Girls enrolled in a 4-year degree course will receive Rs 1,250 per month for 10 months.
c. Girls enrolled in post-graduate studies will receive Rs 2,500 per month.
The primary focus of this scheme is to stop child marriage.
8) Discussions are underway to introduce skill development classes starting from class 6.
9) Schools can adjust their schedules based on weather conditions in a particular district, with this authority granted to the deputy commissioner of the district. SMC (School Management Committee) and SMDC (School Management Development Committee) can make decisions regarding school timings, closures, and openings.
10) Every school has a School Rule Book that should be read by the school management/authority. This rule book provides detailed instructions on managing a school. Students from classes 9 to 12 should also read the rule book, with particular emphasis on students in classes 11 and 12, as it covers both their duties and rights.
11) Every school should have an alumni association to enable alumni to support the school and its students in various ways.
12) By registering on the Vidyanjali portal of the Government of India, anyone can assist any school by providing various services. In India, Assam is leading in Vidyanjali, receiving more than 100,000 fans, including exhausted fans, from different donors. Through the Vidyanjali portal, individuals can teach new skills to students, such as cultural activities and life skills.
13) Dhemaji Higher Secondary School is forming a strong alumni association. This is the legislature’s or MLA’s Adarsha School (Model School), and the Education Minister is the chairman of the school. Alumni students contribute Rs 500 as a scholarship every month.
14) In response to climate change, the government is initiating the Amrit Birkhya Andolan. In schools, alumni students should plant one tree and care for it like a parent cares for a child.
15) The Education Department is a large and extensive department, responsible for almost 45,000 schools and half a crore of students.
16) Talented students will be provided with incentives or further assistance.
17) The ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme will be inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Assam on August 7th, 2024.
In closing, the Education Minister expressed gratitude for the unwavering dedication of the teaching community and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting their efforts. The Minister’s address served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to nurture the minds of the next generation and build a brighter future for all.
