President, Coaching Centres Association of Kashmir
I write with deep gratitude and heartfelt thanks to the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, which has taken a historic and much-needed decision to reverse the 2022 order that shifted the academic session in the Kashmir region from November to March for the students studying in the classes up to 9th from this year and other classes from next year also has been promised. This decision, taken in the best interest of students and the overall educational landscape of the region, is a major step toward rectifying a policy that was not only unsuitable for the region’s topography but also had a detrimental impact on the mental health and academic performance of the students.
At the outset, I would like to congratulate the newly formed government, particularly the Honourable Minister for Education, Mrs Sakeena Itoo, and all the cabinet ministers who have supported and understood the gravity of this issue. Their vision and dedication toward the future of our youth are highly commendable. A special note of gratitude also goes to our Honourable Chief Minister, Mr Omar Abdullah, whose visionary leadership has ensured that this burning issue was addressed with the urgency and importance it deserved.
The decision to revert to the traditional November session is a triumph for students, parents, and educators across Kashmir. This move is not just a policy reversal but a restoration of normalcy that will pave the way for more productive academic years and, more importantly, alleviate the unnecessary stress that the March session had placed on students.
The Inappropriate Shift to the March Session
The 2022 decision to align the academic session with the rest of the country, beginning in March, was perhaps made with good intentions. However, it overlooked the unique topographical and climatic challenges that the Kashmir region faces. The harsh winter months, which often stretch well into March, made it nearly impossible for students from far-flung areas, known as harsh zones, to commute or even prepare for their exams effectively. Schools and higher secondary institutions faced operational difficulties, and the entire education system struggled under the weight of this misaligned session.
The academic year was effectively reduced to seven months, as critical periods were lost to examinations, result declarations, and the extended winter break. This left very little time for actual learning and academic growth, especially for senior students who were preparing for competitive exams like NEET and JEE. The pressures of compressed syllabi and shorter academic years took a toll on the mental health of students, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and overall dissatisfaction with their academic performance.
Mental Health Concerns
The shift to a March session was not just an administrative inconvenience; it had real and far-reaching consequences on the mental well-being of students. Students, particularly those in their final years of school, found themselves overwhelmed with the mounting pressure of compressed schedules. The reduction in the number of productive months for study, compounded by the cold weather and logistical challenges, led to widespread frustration and anxiety.
Mental health professionals across the region raised concerns about the rising cases of stress and burnout among students, especially those preparing for board examinations and competitive exams. It became evident that the shift was affecting not just academic outcomes but the overall well-being of students. With this in mind, the government’s decision to revert to the November session is a much-needed relief for both students and their parents, who had been advocating for this change since the 2022 order was passed.
The Role of the New Government
The reversal of the 2022 decision would not have been possible without the proactive efforts of the new government. Mrs. Sakeena Itoo, the Honourable Minister for Education, has been instrumental in leading this change. Her deep understanding of the educational challenges faced by the region and her commitment to the welfare of students have shone through in this decision. I extend my sincere thanks to her and the entire cabinet for their unanimous support in bringing about this critical change.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has also played a pivotal role in ensuring that the concerns of students, parents, and educators are heard at the highest levels of government. His support and encouragement to the education ministry have been invaluable in bringing this issue to the forefront. Under his leadership, the government has shown that it is responsive to the needs of the people and willing to take corrective action when necessary.
While this decision is undoubtedly a positive development, I urge all students and parents to take immediate steps to synchronise with the new academic calendar. The November session is set to restore the region’s educational rhythm, but it will require an adjustment from everyone involved, particularly those preparing for national-level competitive exams like NEET and JEE.
It is important to understand that this change will have an impact on the Kashmir region only, and the rest of the country will continue to follow the March session. Therefore, students aspiring for NEET and JEE must ensure that they are in sync with the national schedule. A stitch in time saves nine, and early adaptation to this change will prevent any potential negative impact on their preparation and eventual performance in these prestigious exams.
Parents, especially those whose children are studying in Classes 11th and 12th, must play an active role in guiding their children through this transition. I encourage you to work closely with schools and coaching centres to ensure that your children’s preparation remains on track despite the shift in the academic calendar.
As the President of the Coaching Centres Association of Kashmir, I would like to congratulate all the stakeholders in the education sector, including schools, higher secondary institutions, and coaching centres. This decision is a testament to the persistent efforts of educators who have been advocating for the November session. I am confident that with the right guidance and support, our institutions will help students navigate this transition smoothly and effectively.
I would also like to extend my thanks to the worthy Director of School Education for his support in this matter. His prompt reporting to the authorities and advocacy for the November-December session played a crucial role in the decision-making process. The coordination between government authorities and educational institutions has been exemplary, and it is a model of how collaborative efforts can bring about meaningful change.
The decision to revert to the November session marks the beginning of a new chapter in the education system of Kashmir. It is a testament to the power of dialogue, collective action, and responsive governance. The move will undoubtedly lead to better academic outcomes, improved mental health, and a more balanced and productive academic year for students across the region.
As we move forward, it is essential that all stakeholders—students, parents, educators, and government authorities—remain committed to making this transition as smooth as possible. The government has taken a decisive step in the right direction, but it is now up to the rest of us to ensure that we make the most of this opportunity.
In closing, I once again express my deepest thanks to the Honourable Chief Minister, Mr Omar Abdullah, the Honourable Minister for Education, Mrs Sakeena Itoo, and all the cabinet ministers who have supported this decision. Your commitment to the future of Kashmir’s youth will have a lasting impact on generations to come.
I also extend my best wishes to all the students and their parents as they embark on this new academic journey. Together, we can ensure that this change brings about the positive outcomes we have all been hoping for.
By Haamid Mufti