Srinagar: Minister for Education, Sakina Itoo announced plans to engage stakeholders in discussions regarding the potential restoration of the traditional November academic session in Jammu and Kashmir.
Education Minister Sakina Itoo told Kashmir Horizon that plans are underway and they will gather input from various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and educational institutions, about the possible reinstatement of the academic calendar in the region. She said that govt will restore November session from next year. It may be recalled here that the academic calendar in Jammu and Kashmir underwent a significant shift in 2018 when the then-government proposed moving the session from the October-November timeframe to March-April. This decision was met with considerable criticism and concern from educators and parents alike, who argued that the new schedule did not account for the unique climatic and geographical challenges faced in the Kashmir Valley.
Senior People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader and former education minister Naeem Akhtar has been vocal in his criticism of the March-April academic session. He argues that the current schedule has led to significant academic losses for students, particularly those in rural and remote areas who face additional challenges in accessing education during the winter. “The October-November session had been implemented decades ago, considering Jammu and Kashmir’s unique climatic and topographical challenges,” he stated. Akhtar pointed out that the previous schedule allowed students to complete their academic year before the harsh winter conditions set in. He said that a committee headed by former Governor Bhagwan Sahai had recommended the October-November academic calendar as best suited to the region’s conditions. This recommendation was based on an understanding of the local climate, which often results in heavy snowfall and school closures during winter months. “The change has proven immensely beneficial,” Akhtar said, “ensuring that students do not lose precious learning time due to harsh winters and other disruptions.” He further said that the shift to the March-April session has created a gap in educational continuity, negatively affecting students’ learning experiences.
In light of these concerns, Akhtar welcomed the government’s recent initiative to consult with stakeholders about restoring the November academic session. He views this move as a crucial first step toward meaningful educational reform in Jammu and Kashmir. “The focus of future policies must remain on quality education, especially in government schools, which form the backbone of the public education system,” he said. Akhtar emphasized that restoring the October-November academic session could pave the way for a broader overhaul of the educational landscape in the region. He called for sustained efforts to center student welfare in all policies and urged the government to prioritize reforms that enhance academic standards in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Impact Of The March-April Academic Session: The March-April academic session was introduced in 2022, replacing the long-standing November schedule that had been in place since 1975. When the administration announced this change, it justified it as an effort to align Jammu and Kashmir’s academic calendar with the national academic calendar. However, critics argue that this alignment has disrupted the educational rhythm in the Valley, particularly as harsh winters often hinder student attendance during the traditional winter break. In Kashmir, the winter season can extend well into March or April due to unexpected snowfall, which can lead to repeated delays in examinations conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Board. As a result, students often find themselves struggling to keep pace with their studies, exacerbating the academic losses. The call to restore the November academic session has garnered support from various community members and educational leaders. Peoples Conference chairman and MLA Sajad Lone expressed his backing for the change on social media, stating, “I personally fully support restoring the academic session to examinations in November. Apart from the weather variables, it gives our students an academic head start.” Lone highlighted that most admissions for higher education occur around June, meaning that students would benefit from an additional six months of preparation for entrance examinations and admissions. This extended period could make a significant difference in their academic performance and future opportunities. “Climatically, the academic session in Kashmir is ideal for end-of-year exams, and academically, it gives our students a vital advantage,” Lone added. His comments underscore the importance of considering local conditions when shaping educational policies, as they have a direct impact on student outcomes. As the government embarks on this consultation process, the potential restoration of the November academic session could bring about significant changes to the educational landscape in Jammu and Kashmir. By engaging with stakeholders and considering their feedback, the government aims to create a more responsive and effective educational system that better serves the needs of students and their families. In addition to the academic calendar, there are broader implications for educational policies in Jammu and Kashmir. The ongoing discussions highlight the need for a comprehensive review of the education system, including infrastructure, teacher training, and resources available to students. A collaborative approach involving educators, parents, and students will be crucial in shaping a future that prioritizes educational excellence. The announcement by J&K Government to seek suggestions from stakeholders regarding the restoration of the November academic session reflects a growing recognition of the importance of community input in educational policymaking. As educators, parents, and students unite in their calls for change, there is hope for a more effective and equitable education system in Jammu and Kashmir. The potential restoration of the October-November academic session could mark a turning point for the region, ensuring that students receive the quality education they deserve while navigating the unique challenges posed by their environment. With ongoing support from community leaders and stakeholders, the path toward meaningful educational reform appears to be taking shape, promising a brighter future for students in Jammu and Kashmir.
