Simdega buzzed with educational discussions as the district convened its annual Mukhiya Conference 2025 at the picturesque Kelagah Dam. This crucial gathering, facilitated by the Jharkhand Education Project Council, aimed to equip village leaders with the knowledge and tools to foster educational advancement. The conference agenda covered vital topics such as effective school management, elevating the standard of education, increasing student admissions, preventing students from leaving school, improving school infrastructure, and actively involving the community in educational initiatives. The event was officially inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Kanchan Singh, who underscored the pivotal role of Mukhiyas in ensuring the smooth functioning and progress of local schools. She emphasized that consistent monitoring by Mukhiyas can significantly boost student enrollment and attendance, and stressed the need for careful attention to teacher-student presence, school hygiene, and the Midday Meal scheme. A practical suggestion was made for ward members to oversee schools in larger villages, with unannounced visits being particularly effective for assessment. Special attention was given to the emotional well-being of children in residential schools. Mukhiyas were urged to connect with these children by spending time with them, organizing recreational activities, sharing inspiring messages, and assisting with their studies, highlighting the profound positive impact such engagement can have. The choice of Kelagah Dam as the venue served a dual purpose: to address education and to showcase the district’s tourism potential. Recommendations included forming local tourism development committees, introducing parking fees, penalizing litterbugs, and banning plastic and thermocol at picnic spots to promote environmental cleanliness. Simdega’s commitment to environmental protection was reinforced, calling on Mukhiyas to lead public awareness campaigns against plastic waste. The Deputy Commissioner also committed to resolving administrative hurdles in issuing caste and residential certificates for children, seeking specific details from representatives. Police Superintendent M. Arshi reinforced the message that strong village-level awareness campaigns are essential for educational growth, asserting that dedicated Mukhiyas can ensure that every child receives a quality education. Representatives from various villages brought forth pressing issues, including the difficulties faced by children from certain communities in obtaining caste certificates, which impacts their eligibility for scholarships and other educational benefits. Problems associated with certificate issuance for children of single mothers were also highlighted. The Deputy Commissioner assured a prompt and systematic resolution of these concerns, requesting the necessary documentation. Updates were also provided on improvements aligned with NITI Aayog education standards.
