Silent Struggles: The Untold Story of Private School Teachers
Mohammad Nadeem
In the picturesque valleys of Kashmir, where snow-capped mountains whisper tales of beauty and resilience, there exists a painful reality hidden behind classroom doors. It is the story of private school teachers—educated, dedicated, and passionate individuals who shape the future of society, yet struggle to sustain their own lives. Their voices are often unheard, their sacrifices unnoticed, and their dignity quietly tested every single day.
A private school teacher in Kashmir wakes up early in the morning, not just with lesson plans in mind, but with worries about unpaid bills, rising expenses, and the uncertain future of their family. Despite holding degrees, sometimes even postgraduate qualifications, many of these teachers earn salaries that barely cover basic necessities. Some are paid as little as ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per month—a figure that feels almost unbelievable in today’s world.
Yet, they show up. Every day. With a smile on their face.
Inside the classroom, they become a source of knowledge, hope, and inspiration. They teach children about dreams, success, and dignity. Ironically, the very people teaching these values are deprived of them in their own lives.
Their salaries are often delayed for months. Sometimes, they are forced to sign for higher amounts but receive much less in reality. Speaking up is not an option, because jobs are scarce, and losing one means falling into deeper uncertainty.
The mental pressure they endure is immense. School administrations, in many cases, demand perfection without providing support. Teachers are burdened with extra duties—administrative work, exam management, admissions, and even marketing for the school. A single mistake can lead to humiliation or threats of dismissal. There is no job security, no proper contracts, and no voice to defend their rights.
At home, the story becomes even more heart-breaking. Many of these teachers are parents themselves. They struggle to provide quality education to their own children while dedicating their lives to educating others. The irony cuts deep. How can someone who builds futures be unable to secure one for their own family?
There are moments when these teachers quietly sit in corners, calculating their monthly expenses, realizing that their income falls short every time. Rent, electricity, groceries, school fees—everything becomes a burden. In such circumstances, some are left with no choice but to rely on financial help from relatives or community charity.
And here comes a painful truth—many private school teachers in Kashmir fall under the category of those eligible for Zakat.
Zakat, in Islam, is meant for those who are struggling financially, those who cannot meet their basic needs. It is often associated with the poor, the needy, and the destitute. But rarely do people imagine that a teacher—a person shaping minds and societies—could be among those in need of Zakat.
This reality challenges our perception. It forces us to ask: what kind of society allows its educators to reach such a point?
The issue is not just financial; it is deeply emotional and psychological. Constant stress, lack of recognition, and financial instability lead to anxiety and depression. Many teachers lose their confidence and self-worth. They feel trapped—unable to leave their jobs due to lack of opportunities, yet unable to live with dignity within them.
Despite all this, they continue their noble mission. They stand in front of blackboards, explaining concepts with patience, encouraging weak students, celebrating small achievements, and nurturing dreams. They hide their pain behind words of motivation. They inspire others, even when they themselves are struggling to stay inspired.
Society often overlooks them. Parents demand quality education but rarely question how teachers are treated. School owners focus on profits and reputation, sometimes at the cost of teachers’ well-being. Government policies, too, often fail to regulate private institutions effectively, leaving teachers vulnerable.
But change begins with awareness.
It is important to recognize the value of these teachers. They are not just employees; they are nation builders. Their dignity must be protected, their efforts respected, and their basic rights ensured. Fair salaries, timely payments, job security, and a healthy working environment are not luxuries—they are necessities.
At the same time, the community must step forward with compassion. If a teacher is genuinely struggling, offering Zakat or financial assistance should not be seen as charity, but as a responsibility. Supporting those who educate our children is, in fact, an investment in our collective future.
However, beyond financial help, what these teachers truly need is dignity. They need to feel valued, respected, and heard. A simple acknowledgment of their struggles, a word of appreciation, or a supportive gesture can go a long way in restoring their faith.
The story of private school teachers in Kashmir is not just a story of hardship; it is a story of resilience. It is about individuals who refuse to give up on their purpose, even when life becomes overwhelmingly difficult. It is about silent sacrifices made for the betterment of others.
As we admire the beauty of Kashmir, let us not forget the unseen struggles within it. Behind every educated child is a teacher who may be fighting battles we know nothing about. It is time to bring their struggles into the light, to stand with them, and to ensure that those who spread knowledge are not left in darkness.
Because a society that fails its teachers, fails its future.
(The author is a Chemistry educator and a columnist)
