Annual Report 1999-2000

Abstract

In this Annual Report we have made all endeavour to cover all facets of School Education Department of this State and its progress during 1999-2000. We have entered the new millennium with high hope of achieving universalization of elementary education within reasonable timeframe. During this year under review we have focussed major attention on Primary Education, since it is an area which requires top most priority in resource mobilization and community involvement. Keeping in view the implementation of universalization of primary education in the first phase we have formulated integrated programme of primary education for non-DPEP districts. During this year further five districts of West Bengal have come under the aegies of District Primary Education Programme (DPEP). In the similar pattern of holistic approach of DPEP we have introduced Integrated Universalization of Primary Education Programme in 8 non-DPEP districts. The State Government has sanctioned a sizeable amount of fund to the tune of Rs. 40 crores for initiating this programme which includes preparation of district plan, infrastructure development and teachers’ training programme. UNICEF has also assisted us for initiating this programme. This programme has been launched on 1st March, 2000. For community involvement, we have formed Village Education Committee in non-DPEP districts as well. To achieve our objective, we have involved Panchayati Raj Institutions and District administration for strengthening our effort, convergence of fund and activities of different Departments for development of primary education in the area. Simultaneously District Primary Education Programme has gathered momentum in 10 districts.