DEC 28 : Minister for Education, Health and Medical Education, and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo today inaugurated the newly constructed Academic Block of Government Degree College (GDC) Pouni in Reasi district, marking a significant step towards strengthening higher education infrastructure in the region. The inauguration reflects the government’s continued commitment to improving academic facilities and expanding access to quality education in remote and rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister reiterated that the government is pursuing a focused and inclusive approach to upgrade higher education institutions across the Union Territory. She emphasised that the creation of modern academic infrastructure is essential for improving teaching standards, enhancing learning outcomes and providing students with a conducive academic environment. The newly inaugurated academic block at GDC Pouni, she said, will play a vital role in meeting the growing educational aspirations of youth in Reasi district.
Sakeena Itoo highlighted that strengthening colleges in far-flung and hilly regions remains a priority, as it ensures that students do not have to migrate to urban centres in search of quality education. She noted that equitable access to education is a cornerstone of social development and economic empowerment, particularly for students from underprivileged and marginalised backgrounds.
During her visit, the Minister also interacted with public delegations, college staff and local residents, listening to their concerns and demands. Issues related to faculty strength, additional courses, student facilities and local development needs were raised during these interactions. Assuring the delegations of appropriate action, she stated that genuine concerns would be addressed in a phased and time-bound manner, in coordination with the concerned departments.
The Minister underlined that improving academic standards goes hand in hand with infrastructure development. She stressed the importance of qualified faculty, updated curricula and student-centric initiatives to ensure holistic growth of higher education institutions. According to her, the government is working to align colleges with contemporary educational requirements while also promoting skill development and employability among students.
Local representatives and education officials welcomed the inauguration of the new academic block, describing it as a long-pending demand of the area. They expressed optimism that enhanced facilities would lead to increased enrolment, better academic performance and greater opportunities for local youth.
The inauguration of the academic block at GDC Pouni comes as part of a broader push by the government to modernise educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. Several colleges and universities have seen upgrades in infrastructure, digital facilities and academic resources over recent years, aimed at bridging regional disparities in education.
Concluding her address, Sakeena Itoo reaffirmed the government’s resolve to invest in education as a key driver of social transformation. She stated that empowering young people through quality education is essential for building an informed, skilled and resilient society, and assured continued support for initiatives that strengthen the education sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
The event marked a positive milestone for GDC Pouni and the surrounding region, reinforcing the message that quality higher education is being taken closer to the people
