Opinion | The Unseen Cage: When Education Becomes Limitation

The education system in India, especially in Jammu and Kashmir, is heavily shaped by societal expectations rather than by the individual interests of students. From a young age, children are nudged toward traditional careers like medicine, engineering, or government jobs. Many choose these paths not out of real passion but because they believe these are the only routes to success. This mindset dampens creativity and prevents students from discovering their true potential.

In Jammu and Kashmir, government jobs are seen as the most stable and desirable prospects, which leads parents to push their children to prepare for competitive exams as the only way to secure a successful future. As a result, many students spend years focusing on exam preparation, even if their actual talents lie elsewhere. Career fields such as business, technology, research, or the arts are often ignored, creating a situation where too many students compete for limited job opportunities, while many other avenues remain unexplored.

A major flaw in this system is the prioritization of theoretical knowledge over practical experience. Students are taught to memorize material for exams but struggle with real-world problem-solving. Modern employers seek creative, flexible individuals with practical skills—attributes that are rarely cultivated in schools. By providing students with hands-on learning opportunities, educational institutions could better prepare them for today’s job market.

Furthermore, the education system does not encourage independent thinking. Students are not prompted to question, experiment, or innovate; instead, they are expected to follow a strict curriculum without challenging existing ideas. This lack of encouragement for new thoughts stifles creativity and hinders students’ potential. Many of history’s greatest innovators thrived due to their unconventional thinking, but in many current institutions, curious students often face discouragement.

Additionally, many students in Jammu and Kashmir remain unaware of the diverse career options available. Success is typically associated with a select few professions, while fields like arts, media, sports, and entrepreneurship are seen as unreliable. Students interested in these areas often face discouragement from their families, which prevents many talented individuals from pursuing rewarding careers.

The pressure to excel in examinations negatively affects students’ mental health. Many experience stress, anxiety, and depression due to a system that fails to acknowledge their unique skills. Education should focus on fostering growth and learning, but for many, it has become an overwhelming source of stress. Schools and colleges should encourage exploration and help students identify their strengths rather than merely preparing them for tests.

Another significant concern is the lack of focus on entrepreneurship. In developed nations, students are encouraged to think creatively and take risks to start their businesses. In contrast, the focus in Jammu and Kashmir is mainly on securing government jobs. Most educational institutions do not provide support for business development, financial literacy, or entrepreneurship, restricting economic growth in the area. Empowering youth to create their businesses could lead to job opportunities for themselves and others.

Current assessment methods favor rote memorization and high test scores while neglecting crucial skills like problem-solving, communication, and leadership. Many students who perform well academically struggle in the job market due to a lack of these essential skills. Schools should move beyond focusing solely on grades and incorporate practical experiences, internships, and project-based assessments.

Education should aim to nurture independent thinkers and innovators rather than producing compliant workers. Schools and colleges must focus on creativity, analytical skills, and hands-on experiences, enabling educators to diversify their teaching methods and incorporate real-world applications into their curricula.

Parents also play a vital role in this shift. The belief that success is only attainable through government jobs or a few traditional careers needs to be reconsidered. Instead of dictating specific career paths, parents should support their children’s interests, be it in science, arts, sports, or entrepreneurship. When young people pursue their passions, they are often more motivated, confident, and successful.

Jammu and Kashmir has substantial potential for growth, but the education system must adapt to unlock it. If students are encouraged to explore various career options and develop their skills, they can make significant contributions to the region’s development. True progress occurs when individuals are empowered to think independently rather than conform to societal pressures.

For meaningful change to occur, all stakeholders—educators, parents, policymakers, and students—must work together to redefine the purpose of education. The aim should be to cultivate independent thinkers and innovators rather than merely producing graduates who fit into established roles. A system that prioritizes creativity, curiosity, and skill development will lead not only to individual success but also to broader benefits for the region.

Jammu and Kashmir has the potential to become a center of knowledge, innovation, and entrepreneurship if students are encouraged to think beyond traditional career paths. The future belongs to those willing to think differently and carve their paths. Families, schools, and institutions must strive for an education system that values curiosity, resilience, and originality. Only then can the region flourish across all aspects of life.

Email: Ishtiyaqkhan439@gmail.com