Government Making Consistent Efforts to Empower Youth and Create Inclusive Opportunities States Sakeena Itoo
SRINAGAR, JUNE 21, 2026: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo today stated that the government is making consistent efforts to empower the youth and create opportunities for inclusive growth and development across Jammu and Kashmir. The Minister made these remarks while presiding over an award function at SKICC, which was organized by the New Light Education and Environmental Services Foundation and the New Light Education and Environmental Society to felicitate outstanding achievers for their exemplary contributions in the fields of education, social service, youth empowerment, and community development.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister highlighted the transformative role of education in shaping society and appreciated the efforts of the organizing foundations in recognizing excellence and promoting a culture of achievement among students, educators, professionals, and social workers.The Minister emphasized the need for collective efforts toward youth empowerment and highlighted that the Education Department has received significant focus, with continuous measures being taken to improve the quality of learning in public educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir.
She stated that facilities are being upgraded in all schools to improve the learning environment and related outcomes, adding that under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the education sector has witnessed tremendous importance in budget allocation. Underscoring the broader cultural and social value of knowledge, the Minister noted that traditional wisdom encourages individuals to travel as far as China if necessary to attain education, urging that learning should never stop.Calling upon all stakeholders to take responsibility for making the education sector the best among all fields, Sakeena Itoo stated that this collective dedication will ensure the children of Jammu and Kashmir receive top-quality education and can easily face global competition in the future.
The Minister congratulated all award recipients, encouraging them to continue contributing positively to society through their dedication, innovation, and service. During the event, the organizers expressed gratitude for the unwavering governmental support for educational and social initiatives, reaffirming their commitment to advancing social welfare and youth empowerment through meaningful programs and partnerships.
The Minister presented awards and certificates to achievers from diverse fields at the program, which was also attended by the Director of School Education Kashmir, prominent academicians, educationists, social activists, community leaders, and a large number of students.