Srinagar, Nov 11: National Education Day was observed across the state to celebrate the birthday of Moulana Abul Kalam Azad, an eminent educationist and first education minister of free India.
 “On the occasion of Education Day, functions were organized in every educational institution of Kashmir Division  where among other activities the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh’s message was also read out to the students,” read a communiqué issued by the director school education, Kashmir, Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmad.
 Meanwhile, rallies were taken out by the students of various schools in the district Pulwama. The students were carrying banners and placards highlighting the importance of education. The students marched through different roads and streets.
 The largest function was organized at Middle School, Shadi Marg, where the chief education officer, Pulwama, Abdul Khalid Dar, highlighted the importance of education. The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh’s message was also read out to the students and parents present on the on the occasion.    
 The day was also celebrated at Chief Education Office, Bandipora.
 Addressing the gathering, Chief Education Officer, Muhammad Ramzan, recalled the contribution of Moulana Azad and said, “Moulana Azad was ranked among the builders of modern India and was among the top freedom fighters who dedicated his life to develop the education system of under developed Muslims in the country.” “Azad was not only wise and humble, but was also a man who often led from the front and set examples for others. He was forceful, truthful and a fearless leader and was a fighter against oppression and injustice”, he said.
 Presiding over the function, Principal District Institute Education and Trainings said Azad’s firm belief in Hindu-Muslim unity earned him the respect of the Hindu community and he still remained one of the most important symbols of communal harmony in modern India.
 The programme was organised by the cultural wing of the Education department.
 Among others who were present on the occasion include Coordinator Cultural wing Arsalah Habib, Tariq Ahmed Mir, Zonal Education Officer Bandipora, Nissar Ahmad, ZEO Quil Khursheed Ahmed and teachers from the various zones of the district.
 Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Islamabad (Anantnag), today celebrated the National Education Day- the birthday of Moulana Abul Kalam Azad, an eminent educationist and first education minister of free India.
 “The dream of the great leader was to see the education sector, which is the backbone of development and progress in every nation, most flourishing in the country,” said the principal of the School in a statement, adding “The role of the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh is most appreciable for highlighting the importance of education. The role of the Human Resource Development Minister, Kapil Sibal is also appreciable for making the education compulsory for all and effecting revolutionary changes in the sector to encourage all sections of people to come at the competitive level.”
 The official handout stated: “We are highly thankful to the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh for sending his message to the students of all levels and imparting essence of education. This is very encouraging that the Prime Minister has, in his message, mentioned how and under what circumstances he has had his schooling in the childhood. This statement has encouraged the students coming from far flung areas. The role of federal unit (J&K) under the leadership of the Education Minister, Peerzada Muhammad Syed, who is working for flourishing the sector in J&K, was also highlighted on the occasion.”
 Meanwhile, the Day was celebrated at Government Middle School, Majheen (zone Gandhi Nagar) to recall the contribution and services of Moulana Abul Kalam Azad.
 At Ramban, all the educational institutions of the district celebrated the Day.
 Miss Quartul-ul-an-Malik student of 11th class of HSS Ramban, Rekha Devi student of same class of HSS Ramban and Sheela Devi of 11th standard of HSS, Ramban bagged 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize in debate competition respectively and prizes were awarded to winners and consolation prizes among the participants.

Lastupdate on : Fri, 11 Nov 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 12 Nov 2011 00:00:00 IST