School Schedule May Be Revised as Weather Improves: Sakina Itoo

SRINAGAR: Amid public discussion over school schedules in Kashmir, Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Wednesday said academic decisions in Jammu and Kashmir must reflect the region’s varying weather conditions.

Speaking to reporters in Baramulla, Itoo said extreme weather, particularly in winter, makes it impractical to introduce uniform solutions across all government schools.

“With around 28,000 schools in Jammu and Kashmir, it is not feasible to install heating in every school during winter. This is not America; this is Jammu and Kashmir, where decisions must be made in line with the region’s climate conditions,” the Minister said in response to a question on whether all-weather schooling could be implemented.

She said the health and safety of students remains the government’s primary concern. “Winter vacations cannot be cancelled just to maintain academic continuity. Snowfall, cold, and difficult terrain are all relevant factors,” she said.

Regarding early school timings introduced during the recent heatwave, Itoo said the decision was taken in view of high temperatures across the Valley. “We were all praying for rainfall. The temperatures had reached a level rarely seen in Kashmir. The early morning timings were introduced to avoid heat-related risks,” she said.

However, the Minister added that with improving weather and ongoing public feedback, the government is open to reviewing the timing schedule. “We will take all steps to ensure that students can study without discomfort or disruption,” she said.

It may be recalled that the School Education Department had earlier revised summer school timings to 7:30 AM–11:30 AM in Srinagar Municipal limits, and 8:00 AM–12:00 PM elsewhere. The move received criticism from parents, educators, and civil society, who raised concerns over health and safety, particularly in remote and hilly areas. (KNO)