In a major boost to Jammu and Kashmir’s education sector, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday handed over appointment letters to 117 newly selected School Lecturers, marking the revival of lecturer appointments in the School Education Department after several years.
The Chief Minister also announced a 100 per cent fee waiver for school and college students belonging to Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families, fulfilling a commitment made in the Budget 2026. The initiative aims to make education more accessible and reduce the financial burden on economically weaker families.
The announcements were made during the Education Conclave 2026 – “Buniyaad Se Bulandi Tak”, organised by Samagra Shiksha and the Departments of School and Higher Education.
During the event, the Chief Minister inaugurated 2,109 education sector projects worth over ₹115 crore, along with a virtual classroom studio and a high-tech auditorium at the Government College of Engineering and Technology, Jammu.
Recognising academic excellence, Omar Abdullah felicitated 67 meritorious school and college students and honoured teachers who received national-level awards. He also visited exhibition stalls displaying student innovations, institutional reforms and technology-based initiatives.
Appreciating the creativity of young students, the Chief Minister said innovations ranging from patents to start-ups demonstrate how technology and quality education can help address real-life challenges.
Omar Abdullah praised Education Minister Sakina Itoo for introducing reforms and budgetary initiatives, assuring that the government would continue to focus on improving educational infrastructure, strengthening institutions, enhancing teachers’ service conditions and ensuring equal access to quality education across Jammu and Kashmir.
Calling teachers the backbone of society, the Chief Minister said every profession, including doctors, engineers, soldiers and police officers, begins with the guidance of a teacher. He assured continued efforts to improve schools, support educators and create a better learning environment for students.
The event was attended by Education Minister Sakina Itoo, Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, legislators, senior administrative officers, university vice-chancellors, directors of education departments, academicians and students.
Expressing confidence in the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s education sector, the Chief Minister said the conclave strengthened his belief in the potential of students and the progress being made in the field of education.
