Hatim Qayoom, General Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Teacher Association (JKTA), told Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the heatwave is severely impacting students' studies, and both rural and urban schools should consider changing their schedules. "The extreme heat is causing students to feel lethargic, especially in the afternoons, which is detrimental to their education," Qayoom stated, urging authorities to take appropriate action.
A delegation from various groups visited the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) to discuss this issue. Parents have also appealed to the government for either a schedule change or an extended summer break. Manzoor Ahmad, a parent, mentioned that the current weather is unsuitable for school attendance but emphasized the importance of education. "The government should either extend summer vacations or adjust school timings immediately," he said.
Another parent has decided to keep his son at home until the weather improves, prioritizing his child's health over school attendance.
The Kashmir Valley is experiencing intense heat, and the Meteorological Department has indicated that the heatwave will likely continue for at least another week. Director of School Education Kashmir, Tassaduq Hussain Mir, was unavailable for comment.
Top officials in the School Education Department are currently assessing the situation and will seek input from relevant stakeholders before making a decision. On June 30, the department had announced a summer break for all schools in winter zones from July 8 to 17.
