Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, highlighted the state government’s successful education reforms, noting a 42% decrease in secondary school dropout rates over the past decade. Sarma emphasized a shift towards enhancing educational capacity rather than just infrastructure development. He mentioned on social media that more students in Assam are now attending school than ever before. The Chief Minister acknowledged the progress but stressed the need to strive for zero dropouts in the future.
Officials in the education department credited the decline in dropout rates to various policy measures, such as expanding school infrastructure, teacher recruitment, digital initiatives, scholarships, and monitoring student attendance closely. The government’s focus on strengthening secondary and higher secondary education, especially in rural areas with historically high dropout rates, has been instrumental in improving retention. Schemes supporting girl students, economically disadvantaged children, and marginalized communities have also contributed to this positive trend.
Emphasizing the importance of education for Assam’s development, the Chief Minister linked enhanced school retention to better job opportunities, social advancement, and economic progress. He underlined the significance of technology and data-driven governance in monitoring enrollment and identifying students at risk of dropping out. Education experts highlighted the need for sustained efforts in quality teaching, counseling, skill-based learning, and community involvement to achieve the state’s goal of zero dropouts.
As the government signals a continued focus on education reforms, officials anticipate increased investments in school infrastructure, teacher training, and student support systems in the coming years. Assam aims to ensure that every child completes secondary education and is well-prepared for the future.
