As the government fails to provide employment, PhD scholars in Kashmir are forced to do odd jobs. This highlights a deep-seated crisis in the education system.

In Kashmir, a painful irony unfolds as scholars who once inspired students in classrooms are now forced to do odd jobs to survive. These educators, who dedicated their lives to teaching, now find themselves buying from the very students they once guided. This is not just a personal tragedy but a collective failure, a stark reminder of the government’s neglect. We must open our eyes to this injustice and demand a change that restores their dignity and rightful place in society. Their story should inspire action, not despair.

The shift of scholars to other professions underscores the government’s difficulty in supporting these vulnerable individuals. Although there are vacancies in colleges for experienced scholars, resource constraints prevent the government from filling these positions. Instead of hiring one Assistant Professor, the government often chooses to appoint four contractual lecturers for the same total cost. After years of service, these contractual lecturers face uncertainty as new, highly qualified candidates enter the field.

This is not a trend or a publicity stunt to gain sympathy; it is the harsh reality that has driven PhD scholars to the streets in search of new jobs. Over the past five years, we have witnessed MPhil and PhD degree holders shifting to fields they never imagined. Their stories of struggle and failure have revealed the deep flaws in our education system. It’s time for a shift in perspective: students should consider technical courses instead of pursuing higher studies. Graduation in any subject is often sufficient to start a business or find a job with promising prospects.

In J&K, by the end of the 20th century, no educated person was idle at home without a job. Even in the early years of  21st century, jobs were available for educated individuals. However, now it has become nearly impossible due to rising unemployment and intense competition for limited government posts, with many candidates having closely matched scores.

Students flaunt their advanced degrees with pride, but what is their worth if they only lead to hardship? For example, in Shopian, two PhD scholars were forced to sell dry fruits on a cart! This glaring contrast between academic achievement and real-life opportunities calls for urgent reflection! Who is responsible for this disconnect? It’s time we address this critical issue with serious intent!

For over a decade, Kashmiri scholars working as contractual college staff have faced exploitation everywhere—be it in colleges, society, or their own homes. This ongoing struggle has led many to silently fight a tough internal battle, and sadly, some are now breaking down publicly under pressure. It highlights the severe challenges they face daily, often without the support or acknowledgement they deserve.

In J&K colleges, contractual lecturers are hired at the start of the session but often dismissed after a few months. They receive just Rs 28,000 per month for 8 months, though UGC guidelines call for Rs 57,700. Despite enduring heavy workloads and persistent pleas for fair pay, their voices remain ignored. Their perseverance in the face of such challenges is inspiring, and it’s time their dedication is recognized and rewarded.

The plight of contractual college staff has transformed holding a PhD into a societal burden, almost like a curse. They step out with downcast eyes, facing scorn and derision from those around them. Yet, despite this unrelenting adversity, their determination and courage shine through. It’s time to recognize their struggle and celebrate their unwavering commitment.

At home, they endure daily challenges and emotional strain due to their modest income, facing constant difficulties and lacking support even when they need to borrow money. When a person is surrounded by difficulties from all sides, they often forget the very purpose of living. Amid these hardships, their resilience and determined spirit stand out.

In Kashmir, the dire plight of the unemployed underscores an obsession with securing any government job, regardless of its status. Holding a government position is considered vital. Even a class-four employee is deemed more secure and commands more respect than a PhD degree holder. Those who attain government positions enjoy a semblance of stability, while those who miss out suffer profound hardships and face scant opportunities in the private sector or beyond.

Political instability has led to the neglect of the private sector in Kashmir. With few industries to absorb the workforce, investors are deterred by the instability and the lack of supportive policies from the government. This makes investors wary of putting their money into the region. As a result, individuals with undergraduate and postgraduate degrees often have no choice but to work in private schools, where most teachers earn only Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 a month. This meagre salary is inadequate for sustaining oneself, let alone supporting a family.

Private school teachers once relied on additional income from coaching centres. However, the shift to online systems and the change to a March session have stripped them of even this modest source of extra money. To private teachers, this session shift feels like a grave mistake. Previously, students would attend coaching centres in winter, but since the switch to March, there has been a significant drop in student enrollment, deeply affecting their financial stability.

To remind the government and administration, it’s essential to recognize the immense effort and financial strain faced by students. Securing admission to schools, colleges, and universities demands relentless hard work and a stringent selection process. Students spend lakhs annually on their education—covering fees, hostel, fares, form fees, stationary and books. They also commit 25 to 30 years of their lives to studying, essentially devoting half their lives to this pursuit. In the end, what is the ultimate outcome of such a significant investment? This critical issue requires immediate and thoughtful attention.

After 30 years of studying, many students find themselves trapped in a cycle where they cannot switch fields or pursue new opportunities. They are often left struggling to start businesses or become successful entrepreneurs, and may even end up selling dry fruits on the street. Postgraduate students have already faced such challenges, and now even scholars are finding themselves in similar, disheartening situations. My nephew’s question cuts deep: “What’s the point of all this studying? Why should I go to school?” I am deeply troubled by his doubts and need your help to find a compelling answer, so I can show him the true value and purpose of education.

The students in Bangladesh, fuelled by the injustice they faced, rose and shook their government to its foundation. Now, a similar unrest is stirring in Kashmir. If this growing discontent is ignored, the government may soon find itself overwhelmed by a movement that will only gain momentum. Before any adversary seizes this opportunity to manipulate these emotions for their own gain, I urgently call on both the Central and State governments to implement a meaningful job policy for these students. Kashmir cannot afford to follow the tragic path of Bangladesh. We must act swiftly before it’s too late.

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Syed Aamir Sharief Qadri