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SRINAGAR: The Private Schools’ Association (PSA) has warmly welcomed the passage of the Jammu & Kashmir Private Universities Act Bill, appreciating the efforts of the Omar Abdullah–led Government, Education Minister Ms.Sakeena Itoo, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah and all other assembly members who supported the Bill. The Association termed the legislation a historic and progressive step towards transforming the higher education landscape of the region. Members observed that the Act is expected to open new avenues for innovation, research, global academic collaboration and investment in the education sector.
In a statement issued to the press, the Association said that an extraordinary meeting of its core members was held on 3rd April, 2026, at its central office in Srinagar, during which a new leadership body was unanimously elected to oversee the affairs of the Private School’s Association with immediate effect.
The meeting, attended by representatives from various districts, held detailed deliberations on strengthening institutional governance, ensuring inclusive representation and laying a clear roadmap for conducting grassroots-level elections through an independent and credible election commission across all districts.
The Association reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the interests of private schools, promoting quality education and ensuring a structured and transparent institutional framework for all member institutions.
The house endorsed the following office bearers to manage the affairs of the Association with immediate effect: Chief Patron Dr. G.N Var, J&K State President Bilal Ahmad Bhat; Senior Vice President & Chief Spokesperson Manzoor Ahmad Rather; Vice President Ghulam Hassan Rather; General Secretary Mohammad Syed Wani; Finance Secretary Hilal Ahmad Khan; Publicity Secretary Dr. Waseem Siddique; Joint Secretary Dr. Yasir Ramzan among others.
The Association reiterated the guiding role and vision of its Founding President and Chief Patron, Dr. G. N. Var, acknowledging his immense and foundational contribution towards strengthen the private education sector in Jammu & Kashmir.
PSA President Bilal Ahmad Bhat stated, “We remain committed to strengthening the private school ecosystem by ensuring coordination, transparency and collective decision-making at all levels. The passage of the Private Universities Act Bill is a landmark reform that will significantly enhance the academic ecosystem of Jammu & Kashmir, creating broader opportunities for students and institutions alike.”
He further added, “We will strengthen coordination at the grassroots level to address the challenges faced by private institutions in a unified and structured manner.” Senior Vice President & Chief Spokesperson Manzoor Ahmad Rather said, “This Act marks the beginning of a new era in higher education, encouraging quality, healthy competition and alignment with global standards. Simultaneously, our focus remains on strengthen private schools through inclusive representation and transparent governance.”
General Secretary Mohammad Syed Wani said, “We will work towards enhancing quality education, improving policy engagement and aligning institutional practices with the evolving educational framework. The passage of the Private Universities Act Bill has created a renewed sense of optimism within the education sector.”
Finance Secretary Hilal Ahmad Khan emphasised, “This progressive legislation is expected to attract investment and contribute to financial sustainability in the education sector. Within the Association, we are equally committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in all financial matters.”
Publicity Secretary Dr. Waseem Siddique said, “The Private Universities Act Bill will significantly enhance the visibility and credibility of Jammu & Kashmir as an emerging educational hub. We will ensure effective and responsible communication of these developments to all stakeholders.”
Joint Secretary Dr. Yasir Ramzan stated, “This is a defining moment for the private education sector. We will facilitate coordination among member institutions to ensure preparedness in leveraging new opportunities created by this Act.”
The Association reiterated its deep respect for the visionary founding leader Dr. G. N. Var, whose leadership continues to inspire the collective mission of strengthening and advancing the private education sector in the region.
Reaffirming its commitment to quality education, institutional integrity and progressive reforms, the Private Schools’ Association called upon all stakeholders to extend their cooperation during this transformative phase of Jammu & Kashmir’s educational journey.
