%20(15).jpeg)
Srinagar, Oct 30 (KNO): The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced a significant shift in the academic calendar for schools, returning to the November-December session for students up to 9th standard this year. The decision, confirmed by Education Minister Sakina Itoo, aims to better align the region's academic calendar with winter schedules and longstanding traditions, which many feel were disrupted by recent changes.
In an exclusive conversation with the Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Minister Itoo explained that the change will apply to students from pre-primary up to 9th standard starting immediately. For students in 10th, 11th, and 12th standards, the November-December schedule will be reinstated next year, allowing schools and educators ample time to prepare for the transition.
“Starting this year, we are restoring the November-December academic session up to the 9th standard. For students from 10th to 12th grades, this shift will take effect next year,” said Itoo.
A Return to Familiar Academic Timing
Previously, in 2022, Jammu and Kashmir implemented a Uniform Academic Calendar beginning with the 2022-23 academic year, shifting sessions to a March cycle to create consistency across the country. However, the adjustment proved challenging for schools, students, and families in Jammu and Kashmir, where severe winters and geographical conditions are better suited to a calendar ending in November-December. As a result, students and educators have expressed a preference for the traditional academic schedule.
Benefits of the Change
The November-December academic session is expected to bring multiple benefits:
Weather Adaptability: With winters often impacting attendance and travel, particularly in mountainous and remote areas, the shift aligns academic assessments and breaks with local weather conditions.
Familiar Cycle: The traditional timing is deeply ingrained in the region’s culture, making this change more comfortable for students, teachers, and parents.
Improved Preparation: The staggered approach, with higher classes following next year, allows schools to smoothly transition back to the familiar schedule without disrupting ongoing studies.
The government believes this restoration will improve the learning environment by aligning with the local context, ultimately benefiting students across Jammu and Kashmir.
