In a recent virtual meeting, the Uttar Pradesh government highlighted its commitment to ensuring quality education and holistic development for girls at Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs).
The meeting, held on July 3, involved KGBV wardens, academic staff, accountants, and the district coordinator for girl education. Several key initiatives were discussed to empower girls and provide them with a secure future.
“Under this government, economically disadvantaged and promising girls across the state are receiving free residential education and skill development opportunities at KGBVs. These initiatives aim to uplift girls and equip them with the necessary tools for success,” a government spokesman said here on Saturday.
During the meeting, Director General Vijay Kiran Anand emphasised the need for 100 per cent attendance among girls.
“To ensure this, the government plans to use Aadhaar verification and enroll girls based on the list of ‘Never Enrolled’ and ‘Out of School’ provided by the Block Education Officer. Attendance records will be maintained on the Prerna portal and strict action will be taken against wardens who fail to comply,” he said.
He further said in addition to education, the government was taking steps to address girls’ health and nutrition. Funds for stationery, bangles, uniforms, and other essential items would be provided through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The government also stressed the importance of serving a completely balanced diet to the girls. Each KGBV warden would be personally responsible for managing the kitchen and ensuring quality food was provided.
“To guide girls towards a successful future, the government plans to assist them in setting career goals. Career selection support will be provided, along with comprehensive information about various professions. This guidance will enable the girls to make informed choices and harness their abilities effectively,” Anand stated.
He said that ensuring the safety and security of the girls was of utmost importance. Strict measures would be implemented to prevent unauthorised access to KGBVs. Students, teachers, and staff would be required to record their movements in a register and any discrepancies would be thoroughly investigated. The government would deploy women officers from the State Project Office to monitor safety measures and conduct regular inspections.
Language and mathematics proficiency are key focus areas for the government. The “One word, one formula” activity was introduced to enhance language and mathematical skills. Each KGBV’s notice board will display one Hindi word, one English word and one mathematical formula. Students will engage with these words and formulas to improve their vocabulary and problem-solving abilities.
The government also issued additional instructions, including effective utilisation of the annual maintenance funds allocated to each KGBV, maintaining accurate records of students’ physical presence, conducting regular health checkups, establishing open libraries, encouraging self-study, utilising curiosity boxes and computers, implementing mathematics programmes from IIT Gandhinagar and Khan Academy, admitting girls interested in science classes up to intermediate level in class 9 and enrolling girls in skill development training offered by the Skill Development Mission at 56 upgraded KGBVs.
“Through these initiatives, the Uttar Pradesh government aims to provide a nurturing and empowering environment for girls at KGBVs, facilitating their overall growth and ensuring a brighter future for them,” the official said.