The closure of 4,400 government-run schools in Jammu and Kashmir due to low student enrollment is a stark reminder of the dire state of public education in the region. This significant reduction, highlighted by the removal of these schools from the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE) data, points to an urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of the government school system to prevent further deterioration and to ensure that children are not forced into for-profit private schools.
The primary schools have been the most affected by these closures, with their numbers decreasing by nearly 30 percent. This trend is alarming, considering that primary education forms the foundation of a child’s learning journey. The reduction from 12,977 to 8,966 government primary schools reflects a loss of accessible education for many young children in the region. Moreover, the elimination of 392 government middle schools, three high schools, and one higher secondary school from the UDISE+ list exacerbates the problem, leaving fewer educational institutions available for the region’s children.
The decision to merge over 1,200 schools with low or no enrollment into nearby public schools is a step taken by the School Education Department to address the issue. However, this approach, while pragmatic, does not address the root cause of the problem: the declining quality of education in government schools. For these mergers to be effective, there must be a simultaneous effort to improve the quality of education provided.
Education is a public good. It benefits not only the individual receiving the education but also society as a whole by creating a pool of skilled workers. Ensuring access to quality education in government schools is essential for the holistic development of society.
The attractiveness of private schools lies in their perceived quality of education, which is often associated with better facilities, qualified teachers, and a structured environment. However, examples from across India, such as the Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) and certain popular government schools in Kerala, demonstrate that when government schools offer high-quality education, they can attract students from middle-class households who might otherwise opt for private schooling. The success of these institutions is primarily due to the quality of teachers and the lower fees, coupled with their affiliation to reputable boards like the CBSE.
To replicate such success in Jammu and Kashmir, a focused effort on improving teacher training, updating curriculums, and enhancing school infrastructure is crucial. The government must invest in these areas to create an environment conducive to learning, thereby restoring faith in the public education system. Regular assessments and feedback mechanisms should be instituted to ensure continuous improvement.
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