Amid public outcry DSEK ‘eats’ its words
Revises school timing for city schools
Srinagar: In wake of massive public outcry over the flawed school timing fixed by the school education department, the directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) revoked the previous order wherein the schools within Srinagar Municipal limits were supposed to remain functional from 8.30 am to 2.30 pm.
On Wednesday, the Director School Education Kashmir, Muhammad Younis Malik ordered for modification of the previous order issued for school timing and revised the timing of the government and private schools falling within the Srinagar municipal limits. The new timing fixed for school is from 9am to 3pm which was in vogue earlier.
Earlier, there was a massive outcry against the department for fixing flawed timing for schools which was termed as anti-students particularly kindergarten classes.
“Previous order was flawed and had to get revoked. That was against the rights of students,” said Muhammad Iqbal, a parent.
The parents said the government should take such decision only after taking them on board as such moves are directly concerned with students and their physical as well as mental well being.
“Why should government always invite criticism which forces them to modify the orders? They should avoid taking such unilateral decisions,” said Anees Ahmad, another parent.
Meanwhile, Private School Association Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJ&K) has also hailed the department’s decision of revised timing for school falling within Srinagar municipal limits.
“It is a welcome step that the department has taken cognizance of the public resentment against its previous order. The department should always take private partners on board before taking such policy decisions,” said chairman PSAJK, G N Var.
Meanwhile, parents expressed concern over the timing of the classes for kindergarten students saying that the duration of students enrolled in Nursery to UKG should be curtailed by the department.
“It is hazardous to keep nursery class students in school from 9am to 3 pm. If school can’t declare curtailment of school timings for these kids the parents who are willing to take their kids around 2 PM from the schools should be allowed to do so,” said Shaqeel Ahamd,a parent. He said the nursery to UKG students should be given relaxation by the schools and parents willing to take their child earlier during the second half should be allowed to do so.
Meanwhile, DSEK, Muhammad Younis Malik said the matter will be looked into.
“I will discuss the matter with schools and officials in the department to find a solution to it,” he said.
KV Correspondent
