The district of Simdega hosted a significant ‘Mukhiya Sammelan 2025’ at the picturesque Kelaghadh Dam, orchestrated by the Jharkhand Education Project’s Samagra Shiksha initiative. This pivotal gathering aimed to equip local elected officials with knowledge on school administration, educational quality enhancement, enrollment drives, dropout prevention strategies, infrastructure development, and the crucial role of community engagement in education. Deputy Commissioner Kanchana Singh, who initiated the proceedings, emphasized that Mukhiyas are the ‘Custodians of Educational Institutions’. She elaborated that the effectiveness of village schools is directly linked to the proactive involvement of Mukhiyas, suggesting surprise visits to monitor attendance and facilities. Special attention was drawn to the emotional needs of students in residential schools, with a call for Mukhiyas to provide mentorship and support. The summit also explored Simdega’s tourism potential and environmental conservation, advocating for the establishment of tourism committees and a ban on single-use plastics. The Superintendent of Police, M. Arshi, reiterated the power of grassroots awareness in shaping a child’s educational journey. Several Mukhiyas raised critical issues concerning the issuance of crucial certificates for vulnerable groups, impacting their educational opportunities. The administration committed to addressing these concerns as a priority. Progress in NITI Aayog education benchmarks was also highlighted.
