CAMPUS ROUNDUP: Schools abuzz with enrolment drives; JKBOSE issues textbook distribution schedule

Over the past week, schools across Kashmir witnessed a flurry of activity as teachers launched door-to-door enrolment drives to attract students and reduce dropout rates. The initiative, carried out in line with the Right to Free and Compulsory Education, focuses on bringing Out-of-School Children (OoSC) back into the formal education system.

The Education Department has set specific enrolment targets for each district amid concerns over declining admissions in government schools—a trend earlier highlighted by the Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL), Ministry of Education, Government of India. With the new academic session underway, school heads and teachers are making renewed efforts to boost enrolment.

However, the lack of basic infrastructure continues to hamper progress. Many primary and upper primary schools operate from rented, dilapidated buildings, while those with permanent structures struggle with a shortage of classrooms. Though the department claims incremental enrolment growth each year, official data often paints a different picture.

EconFest 2025 Concludes at KU

A five-day EconFest organised by the Department of Economics, University of Kashmir, concluded with participation from economists, policymakers, alumni, researchers, entrepreneurs and students from leading national and international institutions.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan said the festival reflects the University’s commitment to fostering vibrant academic spaces where scholars and students can contribute to regional economic development. The event featured an alumni meet, a panel discussion on “J&K Economy – Development Issues and Way Forward,” the Annual Economics Lecture by Prof. Farzana Afridi (ISI Delhi), and the 9th Annual CECFEE Research & Policy Workshop held in collaboration with ISI New Delhi.

JKBOSE Notifies Free Textbook Lifting Schedule

The J&K Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has issued the schedule for lifting free textbooks for the 2025–26 academic session. According to the notification sent to Chief Education Officers, the process will begin on November 17 at the JKBOSE office in Bemina and continue zone-wise until December 6.

Schools have been directed to send authorised representatives from respective ZEO offices to collect the books. JKBOSE has assured that free textbooks will reach schools before the winter vacation.

NIT Srinagar Marks Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas

NIT Srinagar celebrated the 5th Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (JJGD) last week as per directives from the Ministry of Education. The event, held under the supervision of Director Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, featured Prof. (HAG) Roohie Naaz Mir as Chief Guest. Coordinated by Dr. Kurella Swamy and faculty members, the ceremony began with lighting a lamp and paying floral tributes to Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

In her address, Prof. Roohie Naaz underscored the historic significance of the day and highlighted the role of tribal freedom fighters in India’s struggle for equality.