Kashmir valley witnessed the visual cues of school bags, sound/vibrations of student laughter and the fabric rustling against each other that makes up a school uniform on Monday.
This was evident as educational institutions opened their doors after a hiatus of over two months allowing students up to the 8th standard to return to a safe and welcoming environment where they will once again be reunited with their teachers, friends and knowledge.
This return to school represents more than just a date on the academic calendar; it is a significant and powerful symbol of the resiliency of the people of Kashmir and their determination to build a future through education.
While the normal winter break from school provides students with rest from the frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall, this year’s long period of time represents a much more significant and profound experience for the 8th standard students and their families.
Events in the Middle East, the initial decision of the government to delay the return of students till second week of March and the extended period for returning students back to school are shining examples of how fragile daily life can be.
The return to the daily routine of school life and the opportunity for young students to interact positively and co-operatively with their friends will be a memorable occasion for the 1000’s of young students that now began their next phase in life, with hope.
The classroom is more than just a location to read textbooks and take tests. The classroom serves as a safe haven for the brain; a location where your character can be forged, and a place where societal progression begins.
For parents, it means they can return to a structured day; knowing their kids will continue to progress academically without interruption due to an unexpected hiatus.
The administration’s recent announcement that schools will re-open reflects their recognition that the long-term security and success of our valley are directly tied to educating our youth.
It also highlights the effort that teachers and school personnel have made in order to prepare to receive students back into a safe and nurturing environment.
There is no path to a success future that isn’t paved with the bricks of education. Today, Kashmir has made a renewed commitment to building that foundation, one school day at a time.
