By Vishwapati
Patna: In Bihar, the requirement of 75% school attendance for students to qualify for the uniform and bicycle scheme has been abolished. Additionally, schools will now observe full summer holidays. This announcement was made by Education Minister Sunil Kumar in the Legislative Council.
Students enrolled in Bihar’s schools will now receive uniforms and bicycles at the start of the academic year, with no attendance conditions attached. While presenting the departmental budget, Sunil Kumar said that there would be no separate summer classes, ensuring children are not subjected to lessons during extreme heat.
He further announced that 29,000 schools would be provided with computers next year for students in classes six to eight, while special classes would be arranged for disabled pupils. The minister also confirmed that land would soon be allocated for Kendriya Vidyalayas.
University Sessions to Run on Schedule
Minister Sunil Kumar highlighted that Bihar ranks among the top three states in higher education funding. Over 2,000 assistant professors have been appointed, and efforts are underway to ensure timely university sessions and financial accountability. Strict action, including suspension, is being taken against education department officials involved in corruption.
44% of Teachers in Bihar Are Women
The minister said that women now make up 44% of the teaching workforce in the state, marking significant progress in women’s empowerment. Literacy rates have also seen a dramatic rise—from 40% (general) and 34% (women) in 2001 to 80% and 74%, respectively, in 2023. Additionally, 1.08 crore students benefit from the midday meal scheme.
Bihar’s Uniform and Bicycle Scheme Gains International Recognition
Minister Sunil Kumar shared that a US professor conducted research on Bihar’s uniform and bicycle initiative, presenting findings to the United Nations. This report influenced increased education funding for Zimbabwe and other nations. Last year, over 7.59 lakh students in Bihar benefited from the scheme.
(The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com)
