Srinagar, Oct 30 (NationPress) The Education Minister of J&K, Sakina Itoo, declared on Thursday that the government is steadfast in its mission to enhance the foundational education system.

Sakina Itoo participated in an Orientation Program aimed at bolstering the skills of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) AAYAS (assistants) at the J&K State Council of Education Research and Training (SCERT) located in Bemina.

While speaking to the audience, Minister Sakeena reiterated the government’s firm dedication to fostering young intellects through a learning approach that is inclusive, focused on children, and emphasizes play.

She noted that this orientation initiative represents a pivotal advancement in fortifying the foundation of quality education in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Minister pointed out that early education is essential for cognitive, emotional, and social development, establishing the basis for lifelong learning and a child's future success.

“The early childhood care phase is the most crucial period in a child’s development, and the government’s vision is to guarantee that every child in Jammu and Kashmir receives quality early education that fosters curiosity, creativity, and confidence,” she stated.

She emphasized the government’s ambition to enhance the early childhood care and foundational education system in J&K, stressing the necessity for skilled and compassionate helpers to ensure holistic growth for all children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

According to her, orientation programs like this are crucial for achieving this aim. Minister Sakeena urged the participants and AAYAS to fully engage in this orientation to familiarize themselves with the principles of basic education and early childhood care.

The Minister commended the efforts of AAYAS for their dedicated and sincere work, highlighting their significant role in promoting the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which strongly advocates for early childhood education.

Additionally, the Chief Secretary & Director of SCERT encouraged educators and caregivers to implement innovative and inclusive teaching methods that resonate with local culture, language, and community needs.

In the welcome address, the Joint Director of Education outlined the main aspects of this orientation program, stating that the goal is to enhance participants’ understanding of ECCE and the roles and responsibilities of ECCE AAYAS.

This orientation for AAYAS is a significant step forward in promoting Early Childhood Care and Education in Jammu and Kashmir. The collaboration involving the Government, JKASW, and UNICEF indicates expanded opportunities for ECCE AAYAS to receive specialized training and resources, ultimately benefiting thousands of young learners from vulnerable backgrounds.

The training process began with 65 Master Trainers across the Kashmir division, who will subsequently train 3000 AAYAS at the DIET level across ten districts, commencing from November 3 to December 8, 2025, in the initial phase.

JKASW, with UNICEF’s support, will provide the necessary technical and logistical backing to train the targeted AAYAS throughout the training duration.