Patna, Dec 29 (NationPress) Bihar's Education Minister Sunil Kumar laid out the state government's vision for enhancing the education sector and emphasized significant accomplishments achieved under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s guidance.

He announced that the education budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 has surpassed Rs 70,000 crore, marking a groundbreaking achievement for the state.

Commending the Chief Minister, Sunil Kumar stated that Nitish Kumar has consistently led Bihar with a strong focus on justice, development, and inclusive progress, implementing vital reforms in the education system.

“Our government is steadfast in its mission to deliver quality education in the upcoming years. There will be a particular emphasis on research, innovation, and skill development to adequately equip students for future challenges,” said Kumar.

Education is a priority within the cabinet-endorsed ‘Seven Resolves–3’ initiative.

Under this strategy, a model school will be established in every block throughout the state.

Moreover, steps are being taken to modernize degree colleges and older educational institutions to enhance academic standards and infrastructure.

Regarding the issue of teacher shortages, Sunil Kumar mentioned that Bihar previously faced a significant deficit of educators, but this situation has improved dramatically.

Currently, the number of teachers and headmasters exceeds 2.27 lakh following extensive recruitment drives.

He noted that additional appointments will occur under TRE-4.

The minister also pointed out welfare initiatives, revealing that funds have been directly transferred to the accounts of 4,663 students through various scholarship programs.

Thanks to ongoing efforts, the school dropout rate has decreased to just 1 percent.

Special focus is also placed on the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, which has seen an increase in the honorarium for cooks.

The government is actively working to support girls’ education across the state.

“With the recruitment of numerous teachers completed, the next step is to concentrate on capacity building and training,” said Kumar.

Regular workshops and training sessions are being organized to enhance teaching quality.

Modern educational tools are being introduced, including smart classrooms, tablets for educators, and bilingual textbooks.

Furthermore, the government is ensuring the timely delivery of books and school kits.

To date, textbooks have been distributed to 1.19 crore students.

In the next phase, there will also be a strong focus on higher education, where delays in academic sessions at certain universities have largely been addressed.

On the topic of examinations, Sunil Kumar remarked, “Results for matriculation and intermediate examinations have been satisfactory, and strict measures are taken against any negligent teachers or staff.”

In concluding the press conference, Sunil Kumar expressed that the government is determined to progress towards a developed Bihar and reassured that all goals under ‘Seven Resolves-3’ will be accomplished in the coming years.