Ramban Acts to Boost Female Literacy, Tackle School Dropouts and TB

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district held a meeting to address low female literacy rates, high school-dropout rates, and tuberculosis challenges. Deputy Commissioner Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary highlighted the need for educational reforms and enhanced TB-control measures. Strategies include digital technology implementation, smart classrooms, and intensified health initiatives.

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district conducted a meeting on Saturday to tackle pressing issues of low female literacy, high school-dropout rates, and tuberculosis (TB) in the region.

Chaired by Deputy Commissioner Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, the session revealed concerning statistics: the female literacy rate was at a mere 38.04%, while school-dropout rates showed incremental improvement from 31% in 2021-22 to 18.98% in 2023-24.

Highlighting the urgency of these problems, Chaudhary stressed that enhancing female literacy is crucial not only for educational progress but also for promoting gender equality and economic development. Measures discussed included the use of digital technology such as smart classrooms, particularly beneficial in higher secondary schools facing staff shortages.

Regular school visits by zonal education officers and principals will ensure optimal use of staff and infrastructure. In a broader scope, the deputy commissioner demanded a thorough assessment of educational facilities and lecturer vacancies, especially in remote areas.

On the health front, Chaudhary reviewed TB-control strategies, emphasizing early detection and prompt treatment. He urged the health department to work closely with local teachers, focusing on high-risk zones and ensuring consistent patient support and public awareness. Chief Medical Officer was instructed to leave no stone unturned in providing unwavering treatment and necessary assistance to TB patients.

(With inputs from agencies.)