Exclusive interview with Project Director, Samagra Shiksha Jammu and Kashmir, Er Deep Raj Kanethia (JKAS), sheds light on multiple challenges in the education system and unveils ambitious initiatives

JAMMU: In an exclusive interview conducted by Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor (www.jkmonitor.org) Ajmer Alam Wani, Project Director of Samagra Shiksha in Jammu and Kashmir, Er Deep Raj Kanethia (JKAS) revealed the numerous challenges faced by the education system in the region. These challenges include the lack of parental support, low family education, family mobility, student absenteeism and truancy, lack of interest in education, student's socioeconomic status, child bearing and domestic chores, delinquent behavior, drug and alcohol abuse, poor academic performance, academic demotivation, insufficient infrastructure in remote areas, addressing educational disparities among marginalized communities, girls, and children with disabilities, teacher recruitment and training and the need for an inclusive and relevant curriculum.

However, Er Deep Raj Kanethia (JKAS) also disclosed that several initiatives are in the pipeline to revamp the education system in Jammu and Kashmir. One of the major initiatives is the establishment of the School Education Excellence Hub, which will be set up at a cost of Rs. 8.70 crores. The hub will house a unique Command and Control Centre and an innovative lab for experiential learning, serving as a model for the entire Union Territory.

To provide digital access to education, the project aims to provide 1000 ICT labs and 1700 smart classrooms in the coming months, benefiting over 1.5 lakh students. Additionally, 200 students from poor families will receive NEET/IIT coaching free of cost in 2023-24. The Netaji Subash Chander Awasiya Vidhayala Scheme will also be implemented, constructing seven hostels at a cost of Rs. 24.50 crores to provide residential facilities to 700 students.

Sports infrastructure will receive a boost with a planned investment of Rs. 20.00 crores in 100 schools across the Union Territory. Furthermore, the establishment of 1318 vocational labs, upgrading school infrastructure at a cost of Rs. 293 crores, constructing 114 school buildings, and providing child-friendly furniture to 3745 schools with kindergartens are some of the key initiatives for the current year.

The project also aims to enhance teacher efficiency by completing more than 126 teacher quarters and hiring 15017 AAYA/helpers for schools with pre-primary sections. In addition, the education system will witness the introduction of 10 virtual reality labs, 376 astrophysics labs (AAGHAAZ), and the provision of 40522 tablets to teachers for digital access. Furthermore, 188 open gyms, health screening devices measuring five important parameters, CCTV cameras in 350 schools, ECCE kits, and outdoor play equipment will contribute to creating secure and holistic learning environments.

These initiatives, set to be implemented in the coming months, demonstrate the commitment of Samagra Shiksha in Jammu and Kashmir to overcome the challenges in the education system and provide a conducive learning environment for the students of the region.

For the detailed interview read below:-

1)  Can you provide an overview of the Samagra Shiksha program and its objectives in Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans: Education is the foundation of a progressive society and ensuring access to quality education for every child is essential for their holistic development. In India, the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, also known as Samagra Shiksha, is a transformative initiative aimed at providing inclusive and equitable education to all children.

The main objective of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan is to provide universal access to quality education and enhancing learning outcomes of students; Bridging Social and Gender Gaps in School Education; Ensuring equity and inclusion at all levels of school education; Ensuring minimum standards in schooling provisions; Promoting Vocationalisation of education; Support States in implementation of Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009; and Strengthening and up-gradation of SCERTs/State Institutes of Education and DIET as Nodal Agencies for teacher Training; and to achieve 100% GER (Gross Enrolment Ratio) by 2023 in all sections of the schools.

Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan works for the children from age 3 to 18 years of age i.e, from Pre-Primary to 12^th Class.The program takes an integrated approach by incorporating key components like school infrastructure development, curriculum reforms, inclusive education, vocational education, and digital initiatives. By addressing multiple dimensions of education simultaneously, Samagra Shiksha aims to create a comprehensive learning environment.

Objectives of Samagra Shiksha:

1. Universal Enrolment to reduce the dropout rate and improving retention.
2. Enhancing Learning Outcomes: Samagra Shiksha aims to improve the quality of education with a focus on development of foundational skills such as literacy, numeracy and critical thinking, enabling students to acquire a strong educational foundation.

iii)         Bridging Gender and Social Gaps: It encourages a gender-sensitive and inclusive learning environment.

1. Capacity Building of Teachers: Training opportunities for teachers to upgrade their skills and pedagogical practices.

2)  As the Project Director, what strategies have you implemented to ensure effective implementation of the Samagra Shiksha program in Jammu and Kashmir?

 Ans: Providing of Education at door step as it is the only tool which can bring transformation in the Society.

As a Project Director, developing a comprehensive policy framework and guidelines & its sharing with all the concerned stakeholders, to provide a clear roadmap for the implementation of the program through various Implementing Agencies like Chief Education Officers, Zonal Education Officers and Head of Institutions in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, remained very effective, as this includes defining the objectives, roles and responsibilities of stakeholdersand the allocation of resources.

Besides, these following initiatives have been taken in this regard, which have long lasting impact in the implementation of Samagra Shiksha in J&K:

23. Capacity Building: Conducting of regular training programs and workshops for teachers, administrators and other stakeholders to enhance their skills and knowledge. This helped in improving teaching methodologies, curriculum delivery, and effective monitoring and evaluation techniques. More than 60000 Teachers/ Masters/Lecturers/HoIs have been trained in the year 2022-23.
24. Infrastructure Development: Ensuring that schools have adequate physical infrastructure, such as classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and sanitation facilities. Upgradation of infrastructure played a pivotal role in creating a conducive learning environment and improved student engagement. More than 8700 works are in progress and nearly 2800 stands completed, which has added up a good infrastructure in schools covering all areas of concern.  
25. Curriculum Development and Revision: Regularly reviewing and updating the curriculum to align it with the changing needs of students and the job market, especially with the National Education Policy 2022, which includes integrating new technologies, life skills and vocational training to make education more relevant and holistic remained very effective in implementation of scheme.
26. Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishing a robust monitoring and evaluation system to assess the progress and effectiveness of the programme. This involves setting up mechanisms to collect data, monitor key performance indicatorsand conduct periodic evaluations to identify gaps and areas for improvement. UDISE portal helped a lot in this regard. Moreover, JK Attendance App which monitors the attendance of Teachers, to ensure accountability and SAMIKSHA App for taking actual feedback of Students/Parents shall definitely prove a boon for the improvising the Education System in J&K. ‘

1. Community Participation: Encouraging active involvement of parents, local communities and civil society organizations in the educational process, through Community Mobilization programme and initiatives like parent-teacher associations, community awareness programs and partnerships with NGOs to enhance community ownership and support also played important role.
2. Inclusive Education: Emphasizing inclusive education practices to ensure that children from marginalized communities, girls, children with disabilities and other vulnerable groups have equal access to quality education.
3. Financial Management: Ensuring proper financial management and timely disbursement of funds to schools. This involves transparent budgeting, timely release of funds and effective utilization of resources to address infrastructure, teacher training, and other educational needs.
4. Providing of Digital Access to the Students-Establishment of ICT Labs/Smart Class rooms etc, to enhance the teaching-learning process, which includes providing computer labs, internet connectivity and training teachers to effectively use technology for instructional purposes also remained effective.

3)  Could you explain the role and significance of the Seasonal Centres in the Samagra Shiksha program? How are these centers benefiting students and teachers in Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans: Education is the most effective tool for societal transformation and nation building as it is closely related to various aspects of human life and existence. It is a well-known fact that the UT of J&K has a huge chunk of migratory population which migrates from within/one division to another division during the onset of summer season along-with their school going children. Keeping in view the diversity in topography of J&K and the importance of the schooling facility, Directorate of Samagra Shiksha under aegis of School Education Department, J&K is facilitating the education of these children of nomadic/migratory population by enabling the districts to establish the Seasonal Centers every year, where these communities live during the migratory period. These centers caters children of age group of 6-14 years during the migration period (for a maximum of six months). Seasonal volunteers are engaged for providing Education to these children.

Significance:

1. There are 18373 Seasonal Centres in place, which helps in bridging learning Gaps of Children, as otherwise they will have to stay away from their schools.
2. Reduction in drop out rate.
3. Continuous Touch with the Stdies during migration, as in Seasonal Centers, students are kept in touch with their studies and improvised Education system is ensured.
4. Providing of temporary employment to unemployed youth, who used to visit the DHOKEs, with their families. They get a chance to teach the children and get Rs. 10000 renumeration for six months.
5. Presently, these seasonal centres are benefitting more than 40000 Children of different age groups of different areas and Nomadic families are quite happy with this move.
6. Day by day, they people understand the importance of Education and explore the opportunities for providing best education to their Children.

4)  What initiatives have been taken by the Samagra Shiksha program to promote sports and physical education in schools across Jammu and Kashmir? How are these initiatives contributing to the overall development of students? 

Ans: Sport and games play crucial role in helping the development of human mind and body especially for children. Sports activities could prevent Students from negative activities, yet increasing the quality of life. By providing the facilities according to their interest, Students get more enjoyment and exposure and experience.

Moreover,

• Incorporation of physical education, mind-and-body wellness and sports into the curriculum starting at the Foundational stage, by allotting a dedicated time for sports and physical education daily in the school/College time table is in line with the para 4.6 of NEP
• Sports integrated learning is envisaged in Fit India Movement.
• In J&K under Samagra Shiksha, various initiatives have been taken like providing of Sports material in all the schools for over all development of Students. Rs. 20.00 crores is provided every year for various Schools.

First of its kind.

• 100 Play grounds, costing Rs. 20.00 each, are being developed (05 in each District) with facility of Changing Rooms.
• JK Sports campaign is being launched in the UT, under which all Students, Teachers and Masters shall get a chance to play, which shall inculcate the spirit of competition among them.
• To explore the real talent and Potential of the students in Games, new games are being introduced in the UT, to give a broader aspect.

All these type of initiatives, play a major role in keeping the mind of Students healthy & optimistic. With these initiatives, Students remain engaged for positive activities and stay away from the Drugs menace. Games and Sports facility in each School or in the nearby Panchayat, give positive vibes and also keep the Students healthy.

5)  How is the Samagra Shiksha program addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by KGBV (Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya) or Girls Hostel students in Jammu and Kashmir? Are there any specific interventions in place to empower girls through education? Can you list Girls Hostels completed and ready to be completed?

Ans: Especially in the Educationally Backward Blocks of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, lot of stress was laid on Girls Education. Right from Pre-Primary to Sr. Secondary Classes, Girls education is focused, to ensure the equitable & quality education. Under the Samagra Shiksha programme, several interventions are in place to empower girls in Jammu and Kashmir. Some of these interventions include:

Infrastructure Development: 174 KGBVs (Type-I& Type IV) are sanctioned in the J&K, out of which 107 Buildings have been completed and 94 KGBVs (including Girls Hostels) have been made functional. Construction of rest of KGBVs is in progress. 31 Girls Hostels shall be made functional in the coming 6 months. Such Residential schools/Hostels shall house around 15000 Girls in toto, once completed. The Girls belonging SC/ST category, orphans, General category orphans, belonging to BPL families and girls of general community BPL family, generally of disadvantaged groups shall get education through these Residential Schools/Hostels.

Efforts are made to improve the infrastructure of KGBV hostels, such as, providing separate, classrooms, libraries, computer labs, and playgrounds along with vending machines & Incinerators etc

To ensure the Quality Education, trained and qualified teachers, have been deployed in KGBVs.

Special attention is given to providing life skills education to girls, which includes imparting knowledge and skills related to health and hygiene, self-defense, communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and financial literacy.

Vocational training programs are being introduced to equip girls with practical skills that can enhance their employability and economic independence. These programs cover various areas such as stitching, embroidery, computer literacy, and agriculture.

Scholarships and Incentives: To encourage girls' enrollment and retention in schools, scholarships, and incentives are provided to KGBV students. These may include stipends, free textbooks, uniforms, and transportation facilities.

6)  Teacher education plays a crucial role in ensuring quality education. What steps have been taken under the Samagra Shiksha program to enhance the professional development of teachers in Jammu and Kashmir? How are these measures improving the teaching-learning process?

Ans: Teacher education or teacher training refers to programs, policies, procedures and provision designed to equip (prospective) teachers with the knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, approaches, methodologies and skills they require to perform their tasks effectively in the classroom, school and wider community.

Under Samagra Shiksha, strengthening of physical infrastructure in TEIs & Establishment of New DIETs for providing high quality teacher education, to enable all teachers to achieve National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) is being done.

Further, to strengthen and expand Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing (DIKSHA), a technology-based educational platform, to serve as national repository of high-quality resources/e-content for teaching and learning is made available by Samagra Shiksha.In-service Training of Teachers, Head Teachers and Teacher Educators for their professional and self-development, is being organized by Samagra Shiksha and it has been proved a boon.

Supporting program and activities of SCERT, such that SCERTs lead a “change management process” for the reinvigoration, capacity building and changing the work culture of DIETs/BRCs/CRCs within 3 years, developing them into vibrant institutions of excellence.

Samagra Shiksha is also providing Technology Support to TEIs to empower them to effectively and efficiently carry forward the mandate of quality teachers’ education, research and development of curriculum/textbooks/various TLM/other online and offline resources for school education.Continuous and relevant Academic support to Head teachers/teachers/ schools through BRC/URC/ CRC is also being given.

These measures have brought a significant change in the holistic development of Students and learning outcomes of the students have been enhances with such interventions. Scientific attitude through various initiatives is being explored among the students, so that they may be provided required platform to excel.

7)  Vocational training is an important aspect of skill development. Could you share the vocational training initiatives undertaken by the Samagra Shiksha program in Jammu and Kashmir? How are these programs helping students in acquiring relevant skills for their future? 

Ans: Since, Vocational Education is one of the interventions of Samagra Shiksha, being implemented and funded by Ministry of Education, Government of India. The vocational subjects are introduced as an additional subject at the Secondary level and as compulsory (elective) at the Higher Secondary level.

J&K UT took an initiative to promote the skill development & self employability, by providing a platform at School level (Secondary/Hr. Secondary), under Samagra Shiksha J&K through Vocational Training Partners, which are private companies empaneled by the NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation).

Some of the major initiatives taken by Samagra Shiksha for imparting Skills Training in J&K are illustrated as follows:

• Wider Outreach of Scheme: Vocational Education has been introduced in 1067 Government High and Higher Secondary Schools of J&K. It shall be extended further to 300 schools during the Financial Year 2023-24.
• Offering Trainings on Multiple Trades/Sectors: Training is being imparted in 15 different promising trades which offer better employment as well as self-entrepreneurship opportunities to the students.
• Trainings for Out of School Youth: During 2022-23, a special programme was conducted across the UT for imparting training to Out of School Youth under age group of 15 to 29 wherein around 900 candidates were enrolled.
• Industrial Visits: For providing Hands on experiences to the students, sector-specific industrial visits are conducted for all the enrolled students at nearby industries, institutions, factories etc. More than 1500 Visits conducted in the 3^rd& 4^th Quarter of FY 2022-23.
• On-Job Trainings: From the current Financial Year, OJTs (On Job Trainings) shall also be conducted for all the students of classes 10^th and 12^th during vacations for offering real-time experiences on subject domains.
• Vocational Laboratories: For providing better learning and experiential learning eco-system to the students, 803 Vocational Laboratories have been established in different approved Schools under Samagra Shiksha. Around 1100 additional Laboratories shall be established in the current Financial Year.
• Faculty Development Programmes: The scheme is imparted through Vocational Training Partners which in turn engage qualified Vocational Trainers and deploy them in the allocated schools. Samagra Shiksha J&K as a part of Capacity Building Programme conducts regular Trainings, Orientations and Workshops of these Vocational Trainers.

It is quite apparent that, providing such a platform at the basic level of schooling, imparting skill education to Students, shall prove a boon for the society and shall have larger impact, as it indicates direct employability, which is need of the hour. Though, there is always a dearth of Skilled Man power and vocational education has contributed a lot in this regard.

8)  What measures have been taken by the Samagra Shiksha program to address the issue of out-of-school children in Jammu and Kashmir? How are these efforts ensuring that every child has access to education? 

Ans:

1. A child 6-14 years of age will be considered out of school if he/she has never been enrolled in an elementary school or if after enrolment has been absent from school without prior intimation for reasons of absence for a period of 45 days. Generally speaking, OoSC is Never Enrolled + Dropouts.
2. Various Initiatives are being taken to bring back the Out of School Children and few are mentioned below:

For bringing all drop outs especially of the age 6-14 Yrs (Class I-VIII) in the Schools. The very first task, was to search the unsearched children i.e drop outs, for which Samagra Shiksha launched a survey through digital mode, popularly known as Talaash Survey-App. The teachers were assigned the duty, to conduct the survey and around 23000 Teachers were deployed for the purpose. During the course, 95762 Children, who are either dropout or never enrolled, were traced and the details of whom stands captured through Talaash App.

Special Enrolment Drives are launched for Enrolling Out of School Children: in Special Training Centres–(NIOS/SIOS) whereby the children admitted to the Special Training Centres (Residential/Non-Residential) is enrolled in age appropriate classesand then offered a special course, which helps to bridge their learning gaps through use of accelerated learning techniques, in alignment with the Right to Education Act. Admission of OoSCs is also underway and MoU is being signed, for their mainstreaming. Teaching Learning Material, School Bags, Uniforms & Hostel facility etc shall also be provided free of Cost. 

1. “Students Mentorship”-Student-Teacher Engagement for Educational Reinforcement (STEER) programme as another initiative of School Education Department of UT of J&K, wherein Teachers shall play the role of Mentor for every Ten Students of the Primary School in the first phase, stands launched, which shall boost the morale of the Stduents, so that the Drop out rate may be reduced to minimal figure.

The strategy has also been formulated on the following Parameters to bring down the Dropout rate especially in the Age Group of 6-14 Yrs: 

• Providing of highly Qualified Staff in the Schools.
• Introduction of Complex System in the School for better utilization of resources.
• Availability of ICT/CAL Labs in all Secondary/Sr. Secondary schools.
• Residential Schooling facilities for SC/ST/Disadvantaged groups/Backward Girls Students.
• Free Text Books, Uniform, Works Books and TLM etc.
• Regular PTMs in all Government Schools.
• Providing of Toilets (separate for Boys and Girls in Schools).

9)   The Right to Education Act ensures free and compulsory education for children. How is the Samagra Shiksha program collaborating with the provisions of the Right to Education Act in Jammu and Kashmir? Are there any specific initiatives to promote inclusive education?

Ans:

Yes, no doubt, the Government's Right to Education Act and National Policy on Education, 2020 may have been motivating to provide education to all but it is equally important to analyze the sustainability and efficiency of the educational system. Dropout rates are considered to be a great wastage in the education system, not only do many students with different needs leave school without acquiring basic skills, but their premature departure represents a significant waste of scarce education resources.

1. To cope up with this issue, various steps have been taken under the umbrella of Samagra Shiksha, to strengthen the education system, where in all have equal rights to get education and being offered too through Door to Door awareness campaign.
2. Samagra Shiksha is a comprehensive program in India that takes significant steps to address the educational needs of children at all levels. Inclusive education also emphasizes the implementation of the Right to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009 for children with special needs (within the age group of 6-14 years).
3. It also ensures education for Children with special needs and inclusive education with necessary support services. Right from identification of Children with Special needs and assessment processes, Samagra Shiksha promotes the concept of inclusive classrooms where children with special needs are integrated into mainstream classrooms alongside their peers.
4. Support services play a crucial role in addressing the educational needs of children with special needs under Samagra Shiksha like:
5. Special educators are appointed to provide academic support within these classrooms.
6. Aids & appliances like wheel chairs, tricycles, Cerebral Palsy Chairs, Calipers, Crutches etc and assistive devices such as hearing aids, Braille books, Daisy Players and adaptive technology are provided to enable children with disabilities to access learning materials effectively.
7. Teachers and administrators undergo regular capacity-building programs to enhance their understanding of inclusive education and develop the necessary skills to support children with special needs.
8. Special educators work closely with students, offering individualized attention and support to meet their specific learning requirements.
9. The programme provides additional benefits such as escort allowances, transportation allowances, and reader allowances to ensure that children with special needs can access education without any hindrance.

10)   Can you explain the steps taken to address the educational needs of children with special needs under Samagra Shiksha? How do you ensure inclusive education and provide necessary support services?

Ans: 

• Since, Inclusive Education is also one of the interventions under Samagra Shiksha which focuses on providing equitable education to all sects of society including Children with Special Needs. The various steps taken so far in this regard are as under:
• 64 Resource Rooms have been established across the UT covering all the districts for providing Special Education to the enrolled CWSN
• 80 Special Educators have been engaged under Samagra Shiksha for catering the educational needs of CWSN across the UT.
• Free Aids and appliances are provided to CWSN every year as per the requirements. Distribution of Aids & Appliances to 4990 CWSN beneficiaries for the year 2023-24, is in process and shall be completed within a months’ time.
• More than 300 Camps are organized annually at District/Zonal levels for medical assessments of the CWSN
• Textbooks transcripted into Braille Books are provided free of cost to Visually Impaired Children.
• Financial Support in terms of different allowances are provided to beneficiary CWSN annually through DBT Mode as per the following rates:

o   Escort Allowances: Funds to the tune of Rs 50.28 Lakh @ Rs 1500 per CWSN per year for Primary @ Rs 1000 per CWSN per year for Elementary and @ Rs 1250 per CWSN per year for Secondary were disbursed to the CWSN beneficiaries through DBT.

o   Reader Allowance: Funds to the tune of Rs 4.68 lakh @ Rs 2000 per CWSN per year for Elementary & @ 2500 per CWSN per year for Secondary were disbursed to the CWSN beneficiaries through DBT.

o   Stipend for Girls: Funds to the tune of Rs 86.22 lakh @ Rs 2000 per CWSN per year for each Primary, Elementary and Secondary were disbursed to the CWSN beneficiaries through DBT.

Hence, Samagra Shiksha ensures an inclusive and empowering educational environment for all children across the UT for providing them Quality education.

11)   What challenges do you foresee in the implementation of the Samagra Shiksha program in Jammu and Kashmir and what measures are being taken to address them effectively? 

Ans: Since the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has introduced major changes in the education sector with path-breaking decisions to ensure quality, equity, accessibility, accountability and affordability in the system. The department of School Education has achieved landmark strides so far by effectively implementing all schemes and projects envisaging a notable improvement in the existing curriculum besides embarking upon various innovative new projects and works, with a focus to bring down the drop-out ratio of students. 

There are many Challenges like:

• Lack of parental support.
• Low Family education.
• Family mobility.
• Student’s absenteeism and truancy.
• Lack of interest in education.
• Student’s socioeconomic status.
• Child bearing and domestic chores.
• Student’s delinquent behavior.
• Drug and alcohol abuse.
• Poor performance in studies.
• Academic demotivation.

In addition to this,

Insufficient infrastructure, particularly in remote areas, poses a challenge.

Inclusion and equity: Addressing educational disparities among different sections of society, including marginalized communities, girls and children with disabilities, is also a significant challenge.

Teacher recruitment and training: Ensuring a sufficient number of qualified and trained teachers, particularly in remote areas, is also challenging.

Curriculum and pedagogy: Developing an inclusive and relevant curriculum that meets the needs of the region and promotes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills is also a challenge.

To address these challenges effectively, following measures are being taken:

1. Infrastructure development: Prioritizing the development and improvement of school infrastructure, especially in remote areas, by constructing new schools, repairing existing facilities, and ensuring basic amenities like clean water, sanitation, and electricity.

2. Inclusive policies and initiatives: Implementing policies and programs that target marginalized communities, girls, and children with disabilities to ensure their enrollment, retention, and participation in education. This involves scholarships, transportation facilities and the establishment of special education centers like Seasonal Centres and SIOS.

3. Teacher recruitment and training: Taking measures to attract and retain qualified teachers, especially in remote areas, through incentives, professional development programs and improved working conditions. Providing sufficient training opportunities to enhance their pedagogical skills and subject knowledge is crucial.

5. Curriculum development and innovation: Reviewing and adapting the curriculum to meet the specific needs and aspirations of the region. Encouraging innovative teaching methods, incorporating technology in education, and promoting experiential learning approaches can enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

12)   What role do SCERTs (State Council of Educational Research and Training) or State Institutes of Education play in the implementation of Samagra Shiksha? How do they support the overall educational development in the state?

Ans: The SCERT-JKUT acts as a consultative body and is playing an advisory role at the UT level in connection with all the Academic and Pedagogical aspects of School Education and to improve the quality of school education, which is the main objective of Samagra Shiksha. It covers the qualitative improvement at all the stages of School Education from pre-primary to secondary level through multi-level Institutions and professionally trained human resource, thus playing its vital role in implementation of Samagra Shiksha Schemes.

The primary mandate of SCERT is to formulate Annual Plan, Manage, implement and monitor programmes and activities for the quality Education. Various academic and pedagogical activities are carried out in collaboration with District level Institutions (DIETs) across the UT of J&K including pre-service and in-service training programmes, curriculum and material development, evaluation and assessment, research and innovative activities, onsite support and extension activities.

SCERT and DIETs of the UT are providing a strong and continuous support mechanism to improve the competencies and achievements of teachers and students in School Education System, which inturn ensures the better implementation of Samagra Shiksha. Besides, it implements all the national level flagship programmes launched by MoE GoI for academic excellence of School Education.

SCERT has another mandate of conducting Assessments at various level to know about Learning outcomes of children and recommend suitable measures to improve it, which Samagra Shiksha take as inputs for better implementation of its interventions.

13)   How are the District Institutes of Education and Training (DIET) involved in the Samagra Shiksha initiative? What kind of support do they provide to teachers and schools?

Ans:

• DIETs under the banner of SCERT provide a strong and continuous support mechanism to improve the competenciesand achievements of teachers and students in School Education in JKUT. Besides, it implements all the National Level Flagship programmes launched by MoE GoI for academic excellence of SchoolEducation.

• DIETs provide training to the teachers teaching from Pre-Primary to Secondary Level, both pre-Service and in-service courses vizD. El. Ed/ D. Ed, in addition to various induction, capacity building andrefreshertrainings.

• In 2022-23, more than 60000 Teachers have been trained by the DIETs of the J&K UT under various programmes, which enhanced their capabilities to cope up with the changing scenario moving towards the Digital Education.

• of Research activities to ensure the proper implementation of Programme at ground level are taken up by the DIETS under funding from MoE, GoI.

14)               How do you ensure transparency and accountability in the utilization of funds allocated for the Samagra Shiksha program in Jammu and Kashmir? What mechanisms are in place to monitor and evaluate the progress and impact of the program? 

Ans: Samagra Shiksha Jammu and Kashmir has switched over to modified procedure of funding of Govt of India through Single Nodal Agency account from last year. All the accounts of implementing agencies viz District officers, Zonal officers and Head of Institutions have been made zero balance account. They are assigned limits for using funds from SNA and lapses with closing of year. All the transactions in Samagra Shiksha are being done through Public Financial Management System (PFMS) by more than 22000 implementing agencies down the lines to maintain accountability and financial prudency. The progress of works is closely monitored on PARBANDH portal besides monitoring it through Geo tagged photos.

15)   How do you engage and collaborate with various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and the local community, to ensure the success of the Samagra Shiksha program in Jammu and Kashmir?

Ans: Engaging and collaborating with various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and the local community, is crucial for the success of the Samagra Shiksha program in Jammu and Kashmir. All these stakeholders are involved for successful implementation of Samagra Shiksha Scheme in the below mentioned way:

o   Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs): Regular Parents Teachers Meetings in Schools to provide a platform for parents and teachers to collaborate are held on regular basis, to discuss educational issues, share ideas, and jointly plan strategies for improving the quality of education. In 2022-23 only in the month of September, more than 26000 PTA held.

• Community Awareness Programs: Conduct of community awareness programs to inform and engage the local community about the objectives, benefits, and initiatives of the Samagra Shiksha program are held under the Community Mobilization Programme, one of the component of Samagra Shiksha. Local leaders and organizations are also involved. More than, 1300 such community engagement Programmes held in the previous year.
• Parent Engagement Workshops: Organizing of workshops and training sessions for parents to enhance their understanding of their role in their children's education. These workshops focus on topics such as effective parenting, supporting learning at home, and understanding the curriculum and assessment processes.
• School Management Committees (SMCs): Strengthening of SMCs, which consist of community representatives, parents, and teachers, to actively participate in school governance and decision-makingis done and they contribute to the development and implementation of school improvement plans, monitor the utilization of resources, and provide feedback on program effectiveness.
• Under Samagra Shiksha, opportunity is given to community members, including parents and local professionals, to volunteer their time and expertise in schools and assist in extracurricular activities, career guidance, mentoring, or conducting special workshops to enrich students' learning experiences.Collaborations with NGOs and Civil Society organizations working in the field of educationfacilitate joint initiatives, resource sharingand expertise exchange to enhance the impact of the Samagra Shiksha program.
• By actively engaging and collaborating with parents, teachers, and the local community in Jammu and Kashmir, the Samagra Shiksha program benefit from their insights, support and collective efforts, ultimately leading to its success and sustainability.

16)  In your opinion, what are the key factors that contribute to the overall success and sustainability of an education program like Samagra Shiksha? How do you ensure continuous improvement and adaptability in the program implementation?

Ans: Several key factors contribute to the overall success and sustainability of an education programme like Samagra Shiksha. These factors include:

o   Clear Vision and Objectives: Having a well-defined vision and clear objectives for the program is crucial. This provides a sense of direction and ensures that all stakeholders are aligned towards a common goal.

o   Stakeholder Engagement: Actively involving all relevant stakeholders such as government officials, educators, parents, students, and community members is essential. Their participation, feedback, and ownership of the program contribute to its success and sustainability.

o   Quality Teaching and Learning: Emphasizing quality teaching practices and creating a conducive learning environment is vital.

o   Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishing a robust monitoring and evaluation system helps track the progress and effectiveness of the program. Regular assessment of outcomes, collection of data, and feedback mechanisms enable evidence-based decision-making and identify areas that require improvement.

o   Adequate Resources: Sufficient allocation of financial and human resources is crucial for program success. Ensuring that schools have adequate infrastructure, learning materials, technological support, and well-trained teachers helps create a conducive learning environment.

o   Community Participation: Engaging parents, community members, and civil society organizations fosters a sense of ownership and collective responsibility for the program's success. Involving them in decision-making, awareness campaigns, and school management improves program sustainability.

Since all the education programmes should have Flexibility and Adaptability: Education programs should be flexible enough to adapt to changing needs and circumstances. Regular review and revision of strategies and approaches based on feedback, research, and emerging trends allow for continuous improvement and relevance.

To ensure the better sustainability and adaptability of the Samagra Shiksha Programme, Samagra Shiksha under the aegis of School Education Department, is Collaborating with governmental and non-governmental organizations, international agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen program implementation. Sharing expertise, resources, and best practices fosters innovation and enhances sustainability.

Suport at all levels of government is essential for the success and sustainability of education programs. This includes policy support, resource allocation and effective coordination among different government departments.To ensure continuous improvement and adaptability in program implementation, the following strategies have been adopted:

• Regular Evaluation and Feedback: Conducting periodic evaluations and seeking feedback from stakeholders, which provides valuable insights into program effectiveness and areas for improvement.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Using data collected through monitoring and evaluation to inform decision-making helps in identifying challenges, trendsand areas that require intervention or modification.
• Research and Innovation: Encouraging research and innovation in teaching methodologies, curriculum development and educational technologies facilitates the adoption of best practices and keeps the program up to date with the latest advancements. The same is being done through Teacher Education Institutes like SCERTs/DIETS.
• Providing continuous professional development opportunities for teachers and administrators ensures that, they stay updated with the latest educational practices and pedagogies.
• Adaptive Management: Implementing a flexible and adaptive management approach allows for timely adjustments and modifications based on emerging needs and changing contexts.

The aforementioned strategies adopted shall surely ensure the successful implementation of education programs like Samagra Shiksha and through which, we can achieve continuous improvement and adaptability, ultimately contributing to its long-term success and sustainability.

17)  How do you envision the future of the Samagra Shiksha program in Jammu and Kashmir? What are your key priorities and goals for the coming years? 

Ans: Samagra Shiksha Programme has brought significant change in the Education system in J&K as in National Achievement Survey, the rank of the J&K UT was 17 in the year 2017 but with the interventions of Samagra and it is expected that, the Goal SDG-4.1 i.e “By 2030, ensuring that all boys and girls complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes and the SDG 4.5 i.e “By 2030, elimination of gender disparities in education and equal access to all levels of Education and vocational training for the vulnerable, including persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples and children in vulnerable situations” shall be achieved.

Further, in the coming months the below mentioned initiatives shall be taken to further improvise the Education system in J&K:

• SCHOOL EDUCATION EXCELLENCE HUB @ Rs. 8.70 Crores shall be established, which shall house the unique Command and Control Centre along with setting up of innovative lab for experiential learning as a Model for the UT of J&K.

• Providing of 1000 ICT labs and 1700 Smart Classrooms in the coming months is planned for giving digital access to the Education, which shall benefit to more than 1.5 Lakh students.
• 200 Nos of Students shall be provided NEET/IIT Coaching to Students belonging to Poor families, free of cost in 2023-24.
• 07 Hostels under Netaji Subash Chander Awasiya Vidhayala Scheme shall be taken up with the financial implication of 24.50 Crores, which shall provide the residential facilities to 700 Nos. of Students.
• Sports infrastructure at a cost of Rs. 20.00 Crores shall be completed in 100 schools across the UT. Presently, 24 works are at final stage.

• Establishment of 1318 Vocational Labs (including Sanctioned labs of previous years), shall be done in 2023-24.

• Infrastructure costing Rs. 293 Crores shall be created in the current year 2023-24, to upgrade the infra in Schools. 114 buildings for various Schools shall be constructed under PAB 2023-24.
• 3745 schools having Kindergartens i.e pre-primary classes will be provided Child friendly furniture within next few months. 
• More than 126 Teacher Quarter shall be completed for facilitation to the Teaching Community (Female Teachers), which shall improve the efficiency of teachers.
• 15017 AAYA/Helpers shall be engaged/hired for School having Pre-Primary Sections @ Rs. 5000/month.

First of its kind:

• 10 Virtual reality Labs, with the aim to develop the scientific temper among Students, shall be developed.
• 376 Astro physics labs-namely AAGHAAZ shall be established in next 02 months.
• 40522 Tabs shall be provided to Teachers to have digital access.
• 188 Open Gyms shall be established in 188 Nos of Schools across the UT.
• To maintain the Health record of the Students, more than 1100 Health Screening Devices, measuring important 05 Parameters shall be provided in all the School Complexes.
• Special Yoga Trainings shall be imparted.
• To make schools more secured places, CCTV Cameras shall be provided to 350 schools @ Rs. 1.25 lakh on pilot basis.
• ECCE Kits and Out door Play equipment/material shall be provided to various Schools on Pilot basis.

NIPUN BHARAT:

• NIPUN Bharat Mission-National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy(NIPUN BHARAT), which aims to ensure that every child in the country achieves basic literacy and numeracy by the end of Grade 3 by 2026-27 shall be implemented and Programme Management Unit (PMU) shall be set up in coming 2 months.

Exposure Visits:

• Exposure cum learning visit shall be organized for more than 200000 Students, within and outside the UT, where they will visit the heritage sites.
• Exposure Visits for CWSN shall be conducted outside the UT. Around 5 CWSN from each district shall be escorted for exposure visit.

18)   What are some of the significant achievements or success stories of Samagra Shiksha in Jammu and Kashmir? How do you measure the impact of the initiative? 

Ans: 

JK Attendance portal: The Samagra Shiksha has developed one of its kind coordinate based attendance system wherein 112000 employees have been registered and marking their attendance being monitored at Institution, ZEO, CEO, Directors and UT Level. It has put an end to the proxy system and improved punctuality to the greater extent.

Setting up of 376 Astor Physics Labs in the UT through IIT Kanpur to build up scientific temper among the students of classes 4th to 10th. They will be given knowledge about space science and shall be able to view planet and stars in night through advanced telescope being provided in these labs. The students who will excel will also be taken to ISRO by this collaborative medium

Student Teacher Engagement for Educational Reinforcement [STEER]: One of the most important goals of the Department of School Education J&K is to develop an enabling environment for a child so as to ensure universal acquisition of fundamental literacy and numeracy. Such an environment shall pave way for every child to achieve the desired learning competencies in reading, writing and Numeracy at Primary level. STEER (Student Teacher Engagement for Educational Re-enforcement) is a web based programme for addressing learning Gaps of the students of primary Classes. The NEP 2020 lays stress upon Nipun Bharat among other things for making our students proficient in reading with understanding and numeracy.

STEER is the initiative taken in that direction. The programme besides addressing the learning requirements of students will also help the department to design Training of Teachers on the basis of Impact Analysis. Under this programme every primary teacher has been designated as Mentor and is being assigned with minimum of Ten Students from class I-V, who shall be responsible for the learning requirements of the Students assigned to him. The department aims to enhance the learning outcome of the students and simultaneously their retention, thus ultimately bringing out the dropout rate to zero level.

The Web/Android based App (STEER) is easy to access and is loaded with the resources like Academic Calendar, Self Learning Material, Model-lectures, Video lectures on relevant topics and on locally developed content (which otherwise is not available on internet). The training sessions shall be specially conducted to enhance their pedagogical skills based on the Impact analysis, training studies conducted, forming learning outcome of the students as benchmark.

The unique feature of this programme, is dynamic online assessment architecture under which, the uniform Question papers shall be made online for the Quarterly assessment of Students, which will be conducted under the Invigilator appointed independently. The evaluation shall be conducted by the Independent Teachers and the result of the students shall be uploaded on the given Dashboard. The dashboard is so interactive that, It is capable of generating any Report with regard to the learning outcome of the students in the region wise/Subject wise. It has also the facility of making comparative analysis of the Learning levels of the students of different regions. Achievements Training on STEER

As of now 40 District Nodal Officers and 376 Zonal Level Nodal Officers Nominated for the Progarmme were trained in Phase-I. Around 21000 HoIs Trained on Mapping and allocation. Around 38000 Teachers with one teacher from each school having Primary section Trained on Management of STEER Portal.

Till now, we have 21465 Schools having primary sections registered out of which 9765 from Kashmir Division and 11700 from Jammu Division, including clubbed schools. Also, we have 67908 Teachers are Registered out of which 31901 from Kashmir division and 35996 from Jammu division. Also 48414 Mentors are registered out of which 22673 from Kashmir division and 25741 from Jammu division. So far, we have Registered 514873 students, wherein 237039 are from Kashmir division and 277834 from Jammu division. 

Talaash Door to door web survey for identification and mainstreaming of Out-of-School Children (OoSC): The TALAASH survey has been designed to get the best insights about the Out of School Children. It tackles the questions like when an OoSC left education and the reasons for leaving education midway/not enrolling in the formal school system. It also tries to track the present status of such children like their engagement in any kind of labour, domestic work, or unpaid work which restricts their mainstreaming in school. Furthermore, it also tracks the age-wise segregation of children which can help in age-appropriate planning for the identified children. In addition, it also tracks the children after mainstreaming. Thus, it constitutes a complete process of identification, mainstreaming and retention. Progress of the child can be tracked easily and this application offers to supervise the approach of teacher towards OoSC as well.

Paper-based TALAASH survey was cumbersome and time-consuming. It was not offering a time-bound analysis of various parameters and variables related to the planning and programming of Out of School Children. It did not offer validation and reliability of data. Online android phone-based TALAASH survey has offered a solution to identify and capture all children in the age group of 3 to 18 years of age with a focus on mainstreaming and monitoring of out-of-school children. Their report cards are readily available with an accurate analytical procedure. It offers planning, programming, and management of OoSC’s education and its mainstreaming. Online TALAASH Application integrated innovation into education.

The process started with the development of a Comprehensive Web-based App ensuring its synergy with the NEP-2020 recommendations.

This was followed by the nomination of District and Zonal Nodal Officers and then the capacity Building of around 40,000 NOs, teacher surveyors and HOIs in Cascading mode. The survey was conducted on pattern of census and each house hold was assigned with unique Identification number & was Counter-checked by monitoring teams so that no house hold is left out. The present status of

children like their engagement in any Kind of Labour, domestic work or unpaid work which restrict them from going to school has also been recorded.

Household served and data of 26, 72,773 children captured which includes 99118 OoSC: There has been no data-base of children in the age group of 3-18 years developed by the department so far. Access to data through Dashboard from HOI to Higher level is new of its kind in the UT. The comprehensive information of a child like the complete Bio-data, reason of being OOS, category has been an addition to the data usually collected previously during the surveys.

The Survey will help government to streamline the OoSC in age appropriate classes. Will help in designing Bridge Courses to bridge the learning gap. The survey will help the administration in planning for universal access, retention and provision of education to all the children as enshrined in the constitution.

The administration in planning for universal access, retention and provision of education to all the children as enshrined in the constitution. In order to have a fool proof structured system for Performance Appraisal of the teaching faculty of the school education department “SAMIKSHA” a real-time appraisal system has been devised wherein the appraisal shall be done by the students themselves, this system has been named as “SAMIKSHA” as it will be reflecting the crystal-clear performance of the Teachers with respect to their inputs in the actual classroom leaving no space for duplicity in measuring scale.

Under this innovative system of Performance Appraisal: The Student Feedback System is employed to obtain feedback from theü students accordingly, based on the comments or feedback provided by the students, it generates reports for the school in general and Teachers in specific.

The Teachers are given unique usernames and passwords to verify theirü input and outcomes. The comprehensive report will be visible to all levels viz-Teachers, HOIs, ZEO, CEO, DSEK/J, and UT in Hierarchy Keys. The system also has modules for Students, Teachers, HOI, ZEO, CEOs, and admins. The school's HOI is responsible for adding teachers and students; setting up classes, and allocating the appropriate faculty. The system can generate the school’s and teacher’s performance from the student’s perspective at one click as these are the two sections, one about the school and the other about the teacher. Each of the 15 evaluation questions for teachers includes five options Never, Rarely, Sometimes, very often, and always. The School and Teacher based Questionnaire needs to be filled by the students once on monthly basis.

Coding in Schools: The NEP 2020 marks a transformation that modernizes the country's existing education policy with futuristic, ambitious and generational reforms to meet 21st-century skills. A child who learns how to use code has more opportunities for getting a job in the future. The program ties closely with United Nations Sustainability Goals SDG 1, SDG 4 (specifically 4.3, 4.5, 4.7 and 4-C), SDG 8, SDG 9, and SDG 10, with a focus on digital equity and future readiness. The National Education Policy has also mentioned Problem Solving, Computational Thinking/ Coding from Grade 6 onwards. This progressive and holistic approach of the NEP is aligned with the need of the hour when the digital divide in education has been brought into focus by the pandemic. Apart from this, children in remote areas will also receive ProGame1 offline coding kits that will enable them to learn coding without computers. Coding project was implemented in schools. As a start, 50 schools across J&K identified to undertake this ambitious project. These teachers were undergoing an intensive training programme to learn and impart knowledge of coding to students of Class 6th onwards. Around 2000+ students enrolled in this program and successfully completed the programme.

Students and teachers share their projects on JKKN Platform.

1. Coding Teacher Capacity Building: 50 Master Trainers part of the JKKN Network were trained in a 22 hour (spread across 4 months) intensive capacity building and certificate program designed across aspects of computing pedagogy and technology. Teachers trained under this programme will serve as systemic role models to demonstrate coding best practices for adoption by the larger community of ICT teachers.

2. Let’s Code: Course on Diksha: Provide access to contextual content and tools for students and teachers to begin their computing learning journey. 5000+ learners have accessed the course on Diksha so far.

3. Young Girls in tech Webinar: 200+ Girl Students participated in an engaging and Inspiring Session with Female technology leaders from the Indian landscape.

4. Pi Labs: Pi Jam set up 2 Raspberry Pi Labs across 2 Model teachers run Schools. These labs serve as computer labs that allow for experimentation and physical computing. Each Lab was provided with 8 Raspberry Pi’s and sensor kits.

5. 2 Day Technology and Coding Bootcamp at DIET Srinagar: 42 Participants from different zones of Srinagar underwent a 2-day Technology/Coding Bootcamp in collaboration with Pi Jam Foundation and UNICEF India on 4th and 5th November, 2022. The training objectives were;

• Effective use of current lab/CAL infrastructure in schools
• Introduction to creative coding and Design Thinking
• Introduction to the Let’s Code Course on Diksha

Objective of the programme:

• The course serves as an introduction to design thinking, computing and problem solving for student
• The courses are designed to develop computational thinking, creativity, and problem- solving skills through a progressive course structure.
• Provide access to contextual content and tools for students and teachers to begin their computing learning journey

Expected impact:

• Students will be able to link computing and computational concepts like algorithms to everyday phenomenon and subject learning
• Students will create their own digital artefacts serving as a medium of expression for their ideas.
• Students will start developing a problem-solving mindset towards real life scenarios.

The Jammu and Kashmir Knowledge Network (JKKN), an initiative of Samagra Shiksha J&K: To connect school children of J&K to the world of knowledge through internet. At present More than 700 schools have been connected with internet and there is application for 2-way interactive lectures from across the state. Samagra Shiksha J&K launched the JKKN Online Portal (www.jkkn.co.in) to provide various online services to the students and teachers across the UT J&K

All the information is updated District wise regularly by JKKN DNOs on daily basis by using their logins. (Dynamic Portal)

1. E-Contents for the students are regularly updated on the portal by teaching faculty of respective Districts. The students can search the contents topic wise/subject wise on the portal regularly. https://jkkn.co.in/e-contents.php

2. Guest-Recorded Videos/PPTs on portal. https://jkkn.co.in/logbook/guestview.php.

3. Useful Links are available on the portal Like Diksha, Nishtha, Swayam Online Courses, Swayam Prabha, National Repository of Open Educational Resources(E-books, E-Content, Links of Educational Sites, Software etc.)

4. Dynamic Panel has been created on the portal for creating an online Subject Specific Sessions for the Students.

a. JKKN DNOs/SNOs create an online session for their students by using their logins.

b. Students join online session through the link https://jkkn.co.in/vc.php and the same recorded

lectures/sessions are uploaded on the Content section of the JKKN portal so that students can view the lectures later on.

5. Login panel for JKKN-DNOs (District Nodal Officer) and SNOs (School Nodal Officer)in which they can add/upload the information from backend to JKKN portal by using their logins and passwords which include.

a. Online Monitoring tool (Log Book)

b. Add Schedule for Online Subject Specific Classes

c. Add Career Information on Portal (CIP)

d. Add E-Content Links on JKKN Portal

e. Add Useful Online resources/Software on the portal.

6. Push Notifications are also available on the Android app of JKKN.

(This exclusive interview with Er Deep Raj Kanethia, the Project Director of Samagra Shiksha in Jammu and Kashmir, has shed light on the numerous challenges faced by the education system in the region. However, it has also highlighted the unwavering commitment and dedication of the authorities to address these challenges head-on. Through several initiatives and measures, they are determined to further improve the education system in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that every child receives a quality education and a chance to realize their full potential. With the combined efforts of the government, educators, and the community, the future of education in Jammu and Kashmir looks promising, aiming to create a brighter tomorrow for the young minds of the region).