Himachal Pradesh to restructure SCERTs and DIETs to enhance quality education: CM Sukhu

Shimla, September 17: In a bid to strengthen the education system in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced the restructuring of the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and District Institutes of Education and Training (DIETs). The initiative, aimed at improving the quality of education, is part of the government’s broader efforts to revamp the state’s educational infrastructure.

Chairing a meeting of the education department, the chief minister emphasised that the state’s education ranking had slipped to 21st position nationally due to the mismanagement of the previous government. “We are working diligently to reverse this trend and provide quality education in government institutions,” he said.

Mid-day-meal workers to be retained
The chief minister also addressed concerns about mid-day-meal workers affected by the recent merger of schools. He assured that their services will not be terminated but they will be accommodated in nearby schools. The decision is aimed at ensuring that staff remains employed even as the education system is restructured.

Exposure abroad for teachers and students
In an effort to implement best practices globally, the government has initiated exposure trips abroad for teachers. “Teachers will be exposed to the latest teaching techniques, which will ultimately benefit students,” Sukhu said. Additionally, bright students who have excelled in academics, sports and other fields will also be sent abroad to gain valuable exposure.

Promoting sports in schools
The government is also focusing on improving sports infrastructure in schools. To provide competitive opportunities to young students, separate sports events will be organised for children between the ages of 6 and 11 as part of the Under-14 tournament. The initiative is designed to promote the culture of sports from an early age.

The chief minister also announced an increase in the diet allowance for athletes. State-level participants will now get Rs 400, while those competing at the district and block levels will get Rs 300 and Rs 240, respectively. Athletes representing the state at national events will be given Rs 100. Rs 500 as travel and diet facilities.