Srinagar, Oct 21: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health, and Medical Education, Sakina Itoo, announced on Monday that the government will seek suggestions from all relevant stakeholders regarding the possible restoration of the academic session that was shifted from November-December to March in 20221. Speaking to reporters during the JK Science Congress 2024, held at Women’s College MA Road, Srinagar, Itoo emphasized that a decision would be made only after consulting with the appropriate parties.
“We will seek suggestions from all stakeholders with regard to the restoration of the academic session . Today, I will chair a review meeting with the officials of the education department,” she added.
The call for a review of the academic calendar has sparked public interest and received support from various quarters. Peoples Conference chairman and MLA Sajad Lone expressed his backing on social media, tweeting, “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.
Most admissions happen from June onwards. Our students would get 6 extra months to prepare for entrance examinations and admissions. Climatically, the academic session in Kashmir is ideal for end-of-year exams, and academically, it gives our students a vital advantage. I fail to understand why it was changed.”
The move has also garnered attention from Kashmiri people. Ishfaq Ahmad tweeted, “I was keenly waiting for this statement from your side. It’s the most awaited demand of students. I hope you will raise it on the floor of the Assembly. Also, have a look at the reservation percentile.” Another user, Irfan Lone, applauded the minister, stating, “First politician so far who openly came in support of the November session. Good move, and I hope the government takes this suggestion seriously.”
With the government seeking feedback, the restoration of the academic session has once again become a topic of critical discussion, impacting the future of thousands of school-going children in Kashmir.
