January 14, 2019
Dropout rate among girls decreased due to Kanyashree: Bangla CM
Bangla Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today chaired a review meeting on education sector today. The meeting was attended by vice-chancellors of 30 universities. Principals of several colleges were also present. After the meeting, the CM said that it was a productive discussion.
Addressing the press, she said, “The number of admissions to schools has increased from 13 lakh to 20 lakh. There has been an increase of 73% (from 5.62 lakh to 9.74 lakh) in the admission of girl students. This is a matter of pride.”
The CM opined that Kanyashree has helped bring the drop-out rate among girls down. “They are getting scholarships to pursue higher education. They are achieving success in life,” she added.
It may be mentioned that, since independence, till 2011, only 12 universities existed in Bangla. In the last seven years, the government has set up 28 new universities, and 10 more are in the pipeline. 50 new colleges have been set up in Bangla in the last seven years.
The government has achieved 100% mid-day meal coverage. Toilets have been constructed in 99% schools for girls. Additionally, 1.8 lakh additional classrooms, 7000 primary and upper primary schools have been constructed.
The government today formed an umbrella committee today, consisting of the Education Minister, Higher Education Secretary, vice-chancellors of Jadavpur University, University of Calcutta and Presidency University. They have been asked to share their expertise with the universities in the districts.
“We are also giving due importance to other languages. Colleges have been set up in Hindi and Urdu. We have started classes in Ol Chiki language till Class XI. We are forming the syllabus for Rajbongshi language,” the CM said.
Mamata Banerjee also said, “We have taken several initiatives for part-time teachers. We have taken measures one set of contractual teachers; we will take initiatives for others too. Salary of parateachers has been increased’ we have started schemes for them.”
Taking on the UGC for the shortage of funds, the CM said, “We have received many complaints. Funds for research scholars are also pending. Instead of funding they are issuing fatwas on behalf of Centre – do this and do that.”
