Northeast Desk, 17th September: Arunachal Pradesh is witnessing a transformative shift in its education system, thanks to the visionary leadership of Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona. The recent ‘Chintan Shivir cum Education Conclave 2024’, inaugurated by Governor Lt. General K L Patnaik, marked a significant milestone in this journey. Themed ‘Shikshit Arunachal – Viksit Arunachal’, the three-day event focused on implementing the National Education Policy 2020 and improving education statewide.
Minister Sona has introduced several key reforms and initiatives, including the installation of libraries in various learning centers, including the State Assembly Building, to foster a reading culture among youth. The state government has allocated a record Rs 2139 crores for education under the Arun SHRI Mission, aiming to establish 30 new government higher secondary and senior secondary schools, and construct residential quarters for teaching staff. Additionally, 600 schools with low or zero enrollment have been closed, streamlining resources.
To further enhance educational infrastructure, Minister Sona launched an e-library in the State Assembly building, providing free access to students. A museum showcasing the state’s rich artefacts and traditions has also been opened. These efforts come as Arunachal Pradesh’s literacy rate reaches 65.38%, with male literacy at 72.55% and female literacy at 57.70%. The government’s initiatives aim to further boost these figures and create a more robust and inclusive education system for the state’s future.
In a follow-up programme held in Changlang District, Minister Sona emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing reforms discussed at the conclave. He stressed that education is a key priority, saying “we cannot afford to lose any more time.” The programme addressed critical areas such as improving school infrastructure, enhancing teacher training, and supporting remote and border schools. Similar programmes are planned across other districts to ensure statewide implementation of the education transformation roadmap, paving the way for a brighter future for Arunachal Pradesh.