Adopting scientific approach

In Jammu and Kashmir, we are seeing a change in schools. With the collaboration of teachers, parents, and students, all of us are moving towards the goal of academic achievement. Today, government schools are no longer just centers of learning; they are innovating, growing, and opening up opportunities.

Innovative teaching methods:

I have seen firsthand how teachers of government in J&K are trying innovative teaching methods to make learning more engaging. We are no longer limited to the old-fashioned blackboard teaching. We have interactive activities, digital tools, and real life examples that make it easier for the students to understand concepts. The Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Mission has also supported early education with the requirement that every child from Grades 1 to 3 learns to read with understanding and performs simple arithmetic operations.

Play way method in practice:

You will be glad to know that in our primary and kindergarten classes, the play way method is making learning fun. I have seen children enjoy storytelling, role playing, and hands on activities that help them grasp concepts easily. This approach has turned classrooms into joyful spaces where children love to learn. Instead of memorizing, they explore and experience, making their learning deeper and more meaningful.

Enrollment is increasing,  parents trust us:

A few years ago, many parents preferred private schools over government schools. But today, the situation is changing. More and more parents now trust government schools because of the improvements in teaching quality, infrastructure, and student performance. You will be surprised to know that in many areas, enrolment has increased significantly. This is a clear sign that people believe in the quality of education we provide.

Excellent infrastructure and facilities:

We, as teachers, feel that an effective learning environment is one of the prime reasons for academic success. Modern classrooms, digital learning facilities, science and computer labs, libraries, and playgrounds are available in government schools in J&K. ICT labs in most schools have been inculcating digital education, coding, and technology among the students to gear them up for a future led by innovation.

Highly qualified teachers, the pillar of success:

We are pleased to state that our government school teachers are of the best quality and devoted towards teaching as a profession. Majority of us have undertaken specialized training in activity based learning, child mind, and contemporary methods of teaching. Our current professional development programs are state of the art and do not put us at a disadvantage when it comes to teaching and do give us the tools we need in order to teach our students in the most effective manner we can, with the best available learning opportunities.

Co curricular activities, developing talents:

You and I know that school is not books alone. In our school, we also encourage co curricular activities by way of sports, speech, painting, music and drama. Co-curricular activities are promoting self-confidence, developing social skills, and also discovering the latent potential students possess. Many of them have even become winners at the district and state levels, and that leaves us proud.

Opportunities for all the children to flower:

That is, each child should have a suitable environment to thrive and flourish. At our schools, we do our best to give equal chances to students from every social class. Whether it’s through extra coaching, special guidance for weaker students, or career counseling sessions, we ensure that every student gets a chance to shine.

Model kindergartens, a strong start:

Setting up model kindergartens in government schools has been one of the greatest successes in recent times. I have seen for myself how specially designed classrooms, complete with child friendly furniture, educational toys, and colourful learning materials, make early education an enjoyable experience. Balvatika classes ensure that children get the best start in their educational journey.

Exposure tours learning beyond the classroom:

We feel that knowledge cannot be gathered only from the textbooks. Many government schools these days conduct exposure tours for their students. This is taken out to historical places, science museums, industries, and even colleges to give first hand experience of life. I have seen many students coming back with renewed zest and interest for life.

Vocational education preparing the future:

Much importance ought to be attributed to not only educating but also honing students in preparation for their future. Vocational education in government schools of J&K is being started, enabling students to learn practical skills in carpentry, tailoring, computer application, and electrical work. This will ensure total development of certain skills in furtherance of self employment, thereby enabling the individuals to become financially independent even if they do not pursue academic studies.

Scholarship to merit holder, rewarding hard work:

We believe in discovering and rewarding talent. The government provides scholarships to meritorious students, and no financial constraints should come in the way of education. A large number of students from our schools have utilised these scholarships and are now studying in reputed institutions.

Books, the best companions:

Books are at the core of learning. I always ask students to read books that are beyond their syllabus. The story books, reference books, and competitive exam materials available in school libraries enable them to increase their knowledge. In fact, I tell my students that “a book can be your best friend guiding you towards new ideas and wisdom.”

A priority, mental health awareness:

Academic success is highly important, but so is mental well being. Students are always under stress and anxiety, as well as peer pressure. This is why government schools have started to promote awareness about mental health. Many teachers and counsellors are reaching out to the students for guidance, emotional support, and distress management.

A bright future ahead:

One can very rightly say that schools in the Jammu and Kashmir government are on the path to excellence. We ensure every child gets quality education and the opportunity to succeed with dedicated teachers, modern infrastructure, innovative teaching methods, and a strong support system.

If you are a parent, then trust that your child is going to get some very good education in a government school. If you are the child yourself, then use the fullest potential of the resources. And if you are an educator like me, let’s continue working together and build a brighter future for all our students together. Together we are building a strong, educated, empowered Jammu and Kashmir.

Mukhtar Ahmad Qureshi, teacher, hails From Boniyar Baramulla