Quality of education in government schools has improved: Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda

Chandigarh : Haryana Education Minister Sh Mahipal Dhanda said that the government’s primary objective is to further enhance the quality of education in government schools and ensure better facilities for students—an effort that is yielding promising results.

He shared that while 2,07,685 students were enrolled in Class 5 in government schools as of April 30, 2024, this year, 2,04,163 students have already been admitted by April 15. He expressed confidence that by April 30, the number of admissions will surpass last year’s figure, which reflects the growing trust in government schools and the noticeable improvement in education quality.

The Minister further informed that under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, funds for school uniforms for students from Classes 1 to 8 studying in government schools will be transferred directly to their bank accounts by the last week of April. Additionally, free textbooks will be distributed to all such students by April 21.

Education Minister Sh Mahipal Dhanda was presiding over a  review meeting of officers of the Education Department here today.

Education Minister Sh Mahipal Dhanda stated that under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, it is mandatory for all recognized private schools in Haryana to reserve 25% of seats in Class 1 for children from economically weaker sections. He informed that, so far, 70% of private schools have allocated seats through the Ujjwal Portal. However, he warned that strict action will be taken against the remaining 30% of schools if they fail to comply soon. The Minister has directed education officials to ensure enforcement of the rule, adding that non-compliance could lead to the cancellation of the school’s recognition.

Education Minister Sh Mahipal Dhanda stated that under Rule 158(6) of the Haryana School Education Rules, 2003, no recognized school in the state is allowed to compel students or their parents to purchase textbooks, stationery, or uniforms from a particular shop. Furthermore, as per Rule 158(7), schools are not permitted to change their uniforms within a period of five years. He informed that so far, 40 complaints have been received through the Education Department portal and 57 through email. All complaints are currently under investigation, and strict action will be taken against any schools found in violation.

The meeting was also attended by Director of Elementary Education, Sh Vivek Agarwal, and Director of Secondary Education, Sh Jitendra Dahiya.