PSAJK voices concern over Education Minister’s recent remarks on Private School Teachers, calls for constructive dialogue

• Urges Government to recognise private schools’ vital contribution as key partners in education sector

SRINAGAR: The Private Schools’ Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) on Monday expressed deep concern over the remarks made by J&K Education Minister Ms. Sakeena Itoo during a recent media interview, stating that the statements have caused disappointment among stakeholders of the private education sector across Jammu and Kashmir.

In a press statement issued here, PSAJK President Baba Nazrul Islam said that while the association appreciates several constructive steps taken by the J&K government in the past, the tone and content of the minister’s recent remarks were deeply disappointing for the private education fraternity.

Referring to the recent interview, Nazrul Islam said that questioning the role and expertise of teachers working in private schools has hurt the sentiments of thousands of dedicated educators serving in these institutions.

“While we acknowledge many constructive decisions taken by the Education Minister earlier, the remarks made in the recent interview questioning the role and expertise of private school teachers are disheartening for thousands of committed educators serving in private institutions,” he said. He emphasised that private schools in Jammu and Kashmir should not be viewed as being in opposition to the government, but rather as partners contributing to the development of the region’s education sector.

Nazrul Islam said, “Private schools are knowledge partners of the government and have been contributing significantly to the education sector of Jammu and Kashmir for decades.” He further pointed out that the double bench of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court has recently acknowledged the significance and role of the private education sector in the educational framework of Jammu and Kashmir, recognising the important contribution made by private institutions.

Highlighting the dedication of teachers working in private schools, Nazrul Islam said their commitment is reflected every year through the consistent academic performance of students in board and competitive examinations. “The success of our students and the continued trust of parents demonstrate the professionalism, dedication and hard work of teachers serving in private schools across Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.

The PSAJK President also noted that more than half of the student population in Jammu and Kashmir is currently studying in private institutions, which reflects the confidence and trust of society in the private education sector. Expressing deep concern over delays in addressing issues faced by the sector, he said that the Apex Committee constituted to examine the concerns of private schools was expected to submit its report within one month, but even after more than two months, not a single meeting of the committee has been convened.

“Such delays raise serious concerns among stakeholders regarding the commitment to resolving the genuine issues faced by private schools,” he said. Nazrul Islam reiterated that private institutions are not competing with the government but are supporting its responsibility of providing quality education. He said, “Building educational infrastructure and expanding capacity to accommodate the growing student population is a shared responsibility. Private institutions have been fulfilling this role effectively for decades.”

He added that private schools have remained pillars of stability in the region, ensuring continuity of education even during difficult and uncertain times. Nazrul Islam expressed hope that the Education Minister and the government will recognise the private sector as an important stakeholder and engage in constructive dialogue to strengthen the education system in Jammu and Kashmir.

He concluded by saying that cooperation, mutual respect and partnership between the government and private institutions are essential for shaping the future of the youth and for transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a centre of academic excellence.