Teacher Placements Nearing End; DSEK Warns on Midday Meal Lapses

SRINAGAR: Director of School Education Kashmir (DSEK), GN Itoo, on Saturday has said that the placement process for Postgraduate teachers, lecturers, headmasters, and Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs) in government schools across Jammu and Kashmir is close to completion, while reaffirming his strong commitment towards midday meal mismanagement.

Speaking at an induction program held in Sopore, Itoo said that teachers have already been deployed to nearly 700 Cluster Resource Centres (CRCs). “Only a few vacancies remain, which will be filled within the next couple of days,” he said, adding that the government has also approved the engagement of additional teaching staff in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions, with the recruitment process set to begin soon.

He reaffirmed that the placement of key teaching and administrative staff is in its final phase. “We’re optimistic that all vacancies will be filled by next month,” he added.

Itoo also highlighted the improved performance of government schools across the Union Territory, particularly in national-level competitive exams such as NEET and JEE. “Government schools are showing remarkable progress. Previously, the overall pass percentage was around 58%; today, it stands at 72%. In some remote areas, students from government schools are even outperforming their counterparts in private institutions,” he said.

On improving the quality of education, Itoo noted that efforts are underway to assign subject-specific teachers to schools, a move aimed at enhancing instructional standards.

Addressing recent concerns over rice wastage under the Midday Meal scheme, he acknowledged a few instances of mismanagement but emphasized that the program’s implementation remains largely effective. “Where irregularities are found, prompt corrective measures are taken. Local communities and school management committees have been asked to monitor the program more closely. Parents are also encouraged to visit schools and engage with teachers, it’s a shared responsibility,” he said.

Furthermore, Itoo expressed hope for continued academic improvement. “We’ve achieved results in the 72–78% range. Our goal now is to reach 100% academic success in the coming years,” he added. (KNO)