divisional commissioner Dr Lokesh M taking meeting of eductaion officers on Friday
He directed officials to fix the gaps on priority and made sanitation officials accountable for ensuring regular cleaning. Prayagraj : Poor sanitation, lack of basic facilities and safety concerns in several govt primary and upper-primary schools came under scrutiny during a review meeting chaired by divisional commissioner Lokesh M on Friday.
Prayagraj has 2,832 council schools across 24 development blocks, according to officials. In 166 schools, students have to cross a main road to reach their schools. The commissioner directed officials to maintain and regularly monitor the arrangement at all 166 schools. He also appreciated the recent removal of high-tension wires near 44 schools. Around 184 schools do not have disabled-friendly toilets.
Because of pits and nearly 152 have no electricity connection or problems with their electrical systems, around 31 schools lack proper approach roads, 11 face permanent waterlogging. The official reviewed the education system with the district basic shiksha adhikari (BSA) and all block education officers/assistant BEOs at a meeting. Shikshamitras have been assigned duty at all these schools to accompany children safely between villages and schools. In Jasra, local traders and residents are also helping children cross roads, with some traders putting up red flags to assist them. Infrastructure gaps were also discussed. The commissioner directed that the issues be taken up with the district magistrate and chief development officer for priority action. Facilities for children with disabilities were another concern. The commissioner directed officials to provide ramps and handrails wherever required and construct separate toilets wherever feasible. He expressed displeasure over inadequate cleanliness and irregular cleaning by sanitation workers in most schools. Since sanitation in schools in gram panchayat areas comes under district panchayati raj officer (DPRO), while those in the extended municipal corporation area come under the civic body, he directed that accountability be fixed and adverse entries and salary stoppage be initiated against responsible officials.
He also reviewed compliance with directions issued during earlier meetings.
Stay updated with the latest Prayagraj news.
The commissioner also asked teachers to have meals with students and recognise high-performing children as “star performers” through medals and badges. To improve attendance, schools have been asked to hold fresh meetings with gram pradhans, parents and school management committees and assess the percentage increase in attendance. The BSA will submit reports carrying joint signatures of teachers and parents along with photographs. Wall paintings and cleaner, attractive campuses were also encouraged. Under the Sharda campaign, officials were directed to identify out-of-school children and ensure both their enrolment and regular attendance. Children found begging on roadsides should also be identified and, with NGO support, their families contacted to facilitate their education, safety and welfare. Download the TOI App.