No ban on school picnics in Kashmir: Director Education

Kupwara, Apr 16: Director School Education Kashmir, Dr G N Itoo Wednesday said that there was no ban on school picnics and educational tours but schools across Kashmir need to adhere to safety guidelines for the wellbeing of students.

"Both the government as well as private schools have been asked to obtain prior permission and coordinate with traffic authorities, Police, and the local administration before going for any off-campus trip. The safety of students happens to be paramount, and these guidelines have been put in place for the larger interest and safeguard of students," Itoo said. Dr Itoo passed on these remarks while talking to the media persons in Kupwara.

He said that keeping in view of a huge rush of people at tourist places, an advisory has been issued that on weekends and Sunday, schools should abstain from organising picnics or excursions. "This is aimed for the wellbeing of students," he said.

He emphasised that parents need to remain actively engaged in their children’s education, underlining that schools are not just government-run institutions but shared community spaces. "The active involvement of parents and civil society members does play a crucial role in shaping a more responsive and effective educational system,” Dr Itoo added.

To a question, Director School Education said that the services of CRC's will be continued. He said that the Education Minister has given the nod to continue the services of CRC's who were appointed in the previous year. "We are waiting for the administrative approval and hopefully within the shortest span of time, a formal order will be issued in this regard," he added. Commenting on the enrollment drives this year, Itoo said that over 70,000 students have been enrolled in government schools across Kashmir reflecting a positive response from parents. He said that atleast 35,000 new admissions were admitted at the lower primary level, while nearly 15,00 dropouts were brought back into the formal education system.