Opinion | Kashmiri Schools 2.0: The Changes and Challenges After Article 370

The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 marked a significant turning point in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. The decision to revoke the special status of the state and divide it into two union territories – Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh – has had far-reaching consequences for the region’s education system.

In this article, we will explore the changes and challenges that Kashmiri schools have faced in the aftermath of Article 370’s repeal. We will examine the impact of the decision on the region’s education infrastructure, the challenges that schools and students have faced, and the opportunities that have arisen as a result of the changes.

The Pre-Article 370 Era

Before the abrogation of Article 370, Kashmiri schools faced numerous challenges. The region’s education system was plagued by inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of qualified teachers, and a lack of access to resources. Many schools in rural areas lacked basic amenities such as electricity, water, and sanitation facilities.

Despite these challenges, Kashmiri students have consistently performed well in national-level examinations, with many going on to pursue higher education in top universities across the country. However, the region’s education system was in dire need of reform, and the abrogation of Article 370 presented an opportunity for the government to revamp the system and bring about much-needed changes.

The Post-Article 370 Era

In the aftermath of Article 370’s repeal, the government has taken several steps to improve the education system in Kashmir. One of the most significant changes has been the introduction of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to transform the education system in the region.

The NEP 2020 has introduced several reforms, including the establishment of a new curriculum framework, the introduction of vocational training, and the promotion of digital literacy. The policy also aims to increase access to education, particularly for girls and students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Challenges Faced by Kashmiri Schools

Despite the introduction of the NEP 2020, Kashmiri schools continue to face several challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of access to resources, including textbooks, computers, and internet connectivity. Many schools in rural areas still lack basic amenities, and the region’s infrastructure remains inadequate.

Another challenge that Kashmiri schools face is the shortage of qualified teachers. The region has a high teacher vacancy rate, and many schools are forced to rely on unqualified or underqualified teachers. This has a significant impact on the quality of education, and many students are forced to rely on private tutors to supplement their learning.

Opportunities and Initiatives

Despite the challenges, there are several opportunities and initiatives that have arisen as a result of the changes in the education system. One of the most significant initiatives is the establishment of the Kashmir Education Initiative (KEI), a non-profit organisation that aims to improve education in the region.

The KEI has launched several programs, including a teacher training program, a scholarship program for students, and an initiative to provide access to digital resources for schools. The organisation has also partnered with several private companies to provide vocational training and job placement services for students.

Conclusion

The abrogation of Article 370 has marked a significant turning point in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. The changes to the education system have presented several opportunities and challenges for Kashmiri schools. While there are still several challenges that need to be addressed, the introduction of the NEP 2020 and the establishment of initiatives such as the KEI have the potential to transform the education system in the region.

As the region continues to evolve and grow, it is essential that the government and private sector work together to address the challenges faced by Kashmiri schools. By providing access to resources, improving infrastructure, and promoting digital literacy, we can help to unlock the potential of Kashmiri students and create a brighter future for the region.

Writer : imran kashmiri
Member of Kashmir writers Association