SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday assured teachers that the Jammu and Kashmir Government would address their genuine service-related concerns, including transfers, promotions and vacancies, while also working to improve school infrastructure across the Union Territory.
Addressing an educational conference organised by the JK Teachers’ Forum at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Abdullah said issues concerning transfers, Departmental Promotion Committees (DPCs), vacancies and other administrative matters would be considered with urgency and fairness.
He acknowledged infrastructure gaps in several schools, particularly in rural areas and institutions operating from rented or temporary premises. The government, he said, was working to modernise learning facilities, including through smart classroom initiatives.
On the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), Abdullah said the government would pursue the matter in accordance with the prevailing legal position, taking into account the timeframe extending to August 2028 reflected in relevant judicial observations.
The Chief Minister also highlighted new challenges confronting teachers, including maintaining students’ attention amid widespread smartphone and social media use and addressing the emerging role of artificial intelligence in education and assessment.
He said responsibility for providing a better future for Jammu and Kashmir’s young people should be shared by parents, teachers and the administration rather than being placed solely on educators.
Abdullah also expressed concern over students remaining enrolled in government schools mainly for board examinations while attending private coaching centres. He stressed the need for institutional reforms to improve classroom attendance and ensure meaningful engagement with schools.
The Chief Minister thanked the JK Teachers’ Forum for organising the conference and said the government would continue working with teachers and other stakeholders to strengthen the education system and improve learning opportunities for students.
