Can a system that treats its educators as disposable entities ever hope to provide quality education?
Education is the backbone of any progressive society, a sector that should be prioritized above all else to ensure sustainable development. However, in Jammu and Kashmir, it remains one of the most neglected domains. While other states are making strides toward enhancing their educational standards, UT’s higher education system is struggling with outdated policies, lack of proper infrastructure, a blatant disregard for the teaching community, continuous decline in college enrolments, lack of outcome-based curriculum in new colleges, and above all leadership in slumber to tackle the situation.
A System That Treats Teachers Like Seasonal Laborers
One of the most alarming issues in Jammu and Kashmir’s education sector is the treatment of highly qualified youth. Despite possessing M.Phil., Ph.D., and NET/SET qualifications, these scholars are employed as contractual lecturers—paid meager salaries that do not even match those of unskilled laborers. They are hired for a few months and then left jobless, creating a cycle of financial instability and professional frustration. Can a system that treats its educators as disposable entities ever hope to provide quality education?
Other states have recognized the importance of retaining skilled educators and have implemented policies to ensure job security and fair compensation. Yet, in Jammu and Kashmir, the government appears indifferent. How can these teachers, who are uncertain about their own future, inspire students to excel in a highly competitive world?
Government Priorities: Luxury Over Learning?
A government’s budget allocations reflect its priorities. While education should be at the forefront, it seems to be an afterthought in Jammu and Kashmir. Recently, when a new government took charge, one of its first actions was to purchase high-end vehicles for its ministers and MLAs, ensuring their comfort and luxury. However, when it comes to discussing and implementing UGC’s new regulations—which were recently debated by 16 progressive states on the 6th of this month—none of the UT’s ministers found time to participate.
This raises a fundamental question: Is the future of education in Jammu and Kashmir of any concern to the authorities? If other states can proactively work toward improving educational standards, why is Jammu and Kashmir lagging behind?
Colleges and Universities: Can They Compete Nationally?
Jammu and Kashmir’s higher education institutions lack the necessary resources, research facilities, and policies that align with national and international standards. Universities across the country are making remarkable progress in research, innovation, and industry collaborations, while those in J&K struggle with bureaucracy and mismanagement.
If the government truly aims to ensure quality education, it must:
- Ensure Fair Pay & Job Security for Educators: Teachers must be given permanent positions with salaries that reflect their qualifications and contributions.
- Participate in National-Level Policy Discussions: The state must actively engage with UGC and other educational bodies to stay updated on reforms.
- Improve Infrastructure & Research Facilities: Colleges and universities need modern libraries, laboratories, and funding for research projects.
- Align Higher Education with Employment Opportunities: The curriculum should be updated to equip students with skills relevant to today’s job market.
A Call for Immediate Action
If education continues to be treated as a low-priority sector, the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth will be at stake. The government must recognize that real progress lies not in luxury purchases for politicians but in investing in education—the foundation of a thriving society.
Will the leaders of Jammu and Kashmir rise to the occasion and take meaningful steps, or will they continue to ignore the cries of educators and students alike? Only time will tell.
The writer is a contractual lecturer