By Danish Ashraf Khan, Bathnoor Tral
Kashmir is moving backwards in many areas and unfortunately some of the reasons behind this decline often go unnoticed. One such issue is the attention we give to private educational institutions compared to government schools. It is something we need to think about seriously. I have observed that our Chief Minister (CM), Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and other senior officials are often seen visiting reputed private schools during annual functions and other special events. There is nothing wrong with visiting private institutions. They also deserve appreciation and encouragement. But the question is why don’t we see the same level of interest in our government schools? Government schools are equally important. Thousands of children from ordinary families study in these institutions. For many parents these schools are the only affordable option for their children’s education. These children also have dreams and deserve the same opportunities and attention as students studying in well-established private schools.
Just imagine if our Chief Minister and Deputy Commissioners started visiting government schools regularly. Imagine them attending annual functions and interacting with students and teachers. Think about the confidence such visits could bring to students and the motivation they could provide to teachers. Even a simple visit can make a difference when it comes with genuine interest.
Our government schools need more than occasional inspections. They need proper infrastructure and better facilities. They need libraries and laboratories. Most importantly they need encouragement and regular attention from the administration. We should also listen to the teachers who work under difficult circumstances and try to understand the problems they face every day.
We often talk about improving the education system in Kashmir. We organise discussions and make announcements about educational reforms. But real change will only come when we start giving equal importance to every educational institution. We cannot expect government schools to improve if we continue to overlook them.
I believe our leaders should take the initiative and make regular visits to government schools a priority. Let them sit with students and talk to teachers. Let them see the actual condition of classrooms and understand what is missing. These visits should not be limited to photographs or formal events. They should lead to meaningful action.
Private schools have their own importance but government schools should never be treated as less important. The future of Kashmir belongs to every child regardless of the school they attend or the financial background of their family.
If we really want to bring change in Kashmir’s education system then let us begin by giving our government schools the attention they deserve. Sometimes a visit to an ordinary government school can bring more meaningful change than hundreds of speeches.
Author is a Teacher / Writer / Social Activist and can be contacted at [email protected]
