SRINAGAR: Renowned motivational speaker Wali Rehmani, known for his advocacy in education, youth empowerment, and social justice, visited Kashmir on the invitation of the Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK).
Accompanied by Dr Safdar Quddus, a distinguished mathematician with a PhD from Washington University, and Tafzeel Kamal, Chief Administrative Officer of Umeed Global School in West Bengal, Rehmani engaged with educators, students, and school administrators across multiple institutions.
During his three-day visit, Rehmani toured 11 schools in the Kashmir Valley, including two under construction, and interacted with over 1,200 teachers and educationists. Expressing gratitude to PSAJK President GN Var, he described his experience as deeply enriching and insightful. He highlighted the need for private schools to allocate at least 25 per cent of their seats to underprivileged students in line with the Right to Education (RTE) policy. While acknowledging that school fees in Kashmir are among the lowest in India, he emphasised that many children still lack access to quality education. He urged institutions to adapt their models to accommodate these students and ensure equal learning opportunities.
Addressing concerns over school fee regulations in Jammu and Kashmir, Rehmani criticised the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC) for imposing arbitrary caps without assessing financial realities. He argued that if the government wishes to regulate private school fees, it must first ensure free and quality education in government-run schools.
“Private schools are stepping in where the system falls short. Instead of making their work difficult, authorities should facilitate them,” he remarked. He stressed that school fees are an investment in children’s futures, allowing private institutions to maintain quality education, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated staff while contributing to local economic growth.
Rehmani urged PSAJK and school owners to initiate formal discussions with the government and, if necessary, seek legal recourse to protect private educational institutions. He called for constructive dialogue between educators, government officials, and parents to build a sustainable education system.
Dr Safdar Quddus also held interactive sessions with teachers, focusing on innovative teaching methodologies. “A strong education system nurtures visionaries, scientists, and leaders who shape the future. Kashmir has immense talent, and with the right resources, mentorship, and opportunities, students can excel globally,” he said.
Var appreciated Rehmani’s visit, stating that his insights and advocacy align with PSAJK’s mission to ensure quality education for all. As Rehmani concluded his visit, he expressed optimism about the region’s educational future and urged educators to continue striving for academic excellence.
