SHAKEELA ANDRABI
SRINAGAR: As per reports, students in Government schools are yet to receive textbooks even though new academic year has already begun. The lack of textbooks, as per teachers, has become a major impediment in the commencement of the new academic session. Expressing displeasure, the parents of aggrieved students have demanded immediate action against all those responsible from the same. Furthermore, the students who have recently shifted from private schools to government schools are also facing a tough time while adjusting into new environment. Many students have complained about poor infrastructure and lack of basic amenities.
Sources told STATE TIMES correspondent that some students, who shifted from private schools, are now considering withdrawing their admissions and returning to their previous schools, which is really a cause of worry for SEDK.
The parents of these students have complained that they were assured that students will be provided each and every facility including textbooks. “It has been more than a month and out wards are yet to receive textbooks in schools,” said parents from Srinagar. Similar complaints were received from other districts as well.
Earlier, in March, SEDK organised 10-days ‘mega enrollment drive’ which started on March 15 and was later extended up to March 31. During the drive, the education department assured parents and students that they will take all necessary steps to improve quality of education in government schools besides providing a conducive learning environment. The much hyped enrolment drive launched by Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) to increase the enrolment in government schools has also deflated as students in Government schools are even without textbooks, leaving parents and students in a state of confusion and frustration
The parents and students, who were initially keen for joining Government schools, are now having second thoughts and are considering other options. “The result was prepared on time and the new session started in schools as well but we are yet to receive textbooks for students,” the teachers said.
Although Director School Education Kashmir Tasaduq Hussain Mir was not available for comments, however, the concerned Chief Education Officers (CEOs) said the matter has been was taken up with higher authorities and matter will be resolved within days. About withdrawal of admission by private schools students, the CEO Srinagar said that teachers and Heads of the institutions will be directed to motivate students to remain in Government schools and issue will be resolved soon.