SRINAGAR: A delegation from the Private Schools’ Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK), led by President GN Var, met with Minister of Education, Health, Medical Education, Higher Education, and Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo, at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar.
Var highlighted the opportunity for meaningful reforms, stating, “The appointment of Ms Sakina Itoo as Education Minister presents a valuable opportunity for progress in education. Today’s meeting lays the foundation for ongoing collaboration aimed at enhancing educational standards in Jammu and Kashmir.”
During the discussions, PSAJK presented several critical issues, including:
Permanent School Registration: PSAJK requested a streamlined process for permanent registration to ensure stability and long-term investment in private education.
Simplified NOC Requirements: The delegation advocated for the reduction of redundant No Objection Certificates (NOCs) that currently create administrative bottlenecks, hindering school operations.
Revised Fee Regulation Mechanism: PSAJK urged a balanced approach to fee regulations that would allow private schools to maintain quality standards while ensuring operational sustainability.
Session Alignment Proposal: The association recommended aligning the academic session to conclude exams before winter vacation, providing students with better preparation time for competitive exams.
Minister Itoo, acknowledged these concerns and affirmed her dedication to prompt and practical solutions. “Education is the cornerstone of our society’s development, and I am committed to addressing these critical issues alongside PSAJK to ensure students in Jammu and Kashmir receive a quality education,” she stated, highlighting the government’s full support for initiatives that benefit students and educational institutions.
This meeting establishes a renewed partnership between PSAJK and the J&K Government, signalling collaborative efforts to tackle educational challenges in the region. PSAJK remains optimistic about Minister Itoo’s assurances and is committed to assisting the government in implementing policies that serve the best interests of students, families, and schools.
