SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday stressed the need for educational institutions to go beyond academic instruction and play a greater role in developing character, promoting equal opportunities and nurturing ethical values among students.
He was speaking at the ‘Honour & Excellence 2026’ annual awards ceremony organised by the Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar Education Society (DJSES) at the Convention Centre in Jammu, where he attended as the chief guest.
The ceremony recognised meritorious students for their academic achievements, honoured staff members for their dedicated service and felicitated distinguished alumni for their contributions.
Lauding the society’s contribution to education, Abdullah appreciated its network of 24 schools spread across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, and its efforts to prepare skilled and responsible citizens.
He said educational institutions had an important responsibility in shaping students’ character and fostering academic excellence, while ensuring that learning promoted inclusiveness and compassion.
The Chief Minister emphasised that education should not remain confined to imparting knowledge but must also contribute to building an inclusive, compassionate and progressive society.
