Senior Secondary Sections in Urban Areas to Be Made Co-Educational: CM Sukhu

Shimla, April 18: In a significant move aimed at promoting inclusivity and optimal use of educational resources, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that senior secondary sections of government schools located in urban local body areas of Himachal Pradesh will soon be made co-educational.

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting of the Education Department, presided over by the Chief Minister. Education Minister Rohit Thakur, Education Secretary Rakesh Kanwar, and other senior officials were also present.

Focus on Rationalization and Better Access

CM Sukhu said the government is working on rationalizing schools that have low student enrollment, particularly where another school of the same level is located nearby. “This will ensure better allocation of resources and improve the quality of education,” he stated.

The move is part of the state government’s broader strategy to strengthen the education system by reducing redundancy and encouraging gender-inclusive education environments, especially in urban regions.

Promoting Equity in Education

Officials in the Education Department believe that making schools co-educational will increase accessibility, foster gender equality, and optimize faculty deployment in urban schools where infrastructure often remains underutilized.

The government is also expected to conduct a detailed assessment of school demographics and facilities before implementing the changes.

The initiative reflects the state’s commitment to equitable and efficient education for all, aligning with national goals of inclusive learning.