The demand for syllabus relaxation for students of the Jammu Division has once again gained momentum ahead of the upcoming JKBOSE examinations, with the Private Schools Association J&K (PSAJK) strongly pitching for equal academic relief.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the association highlighted that students in several parts of the Jammu Division—especially Chenab Valley and Poonch districts—have faced significant learning loss, warranting the same syllabus relaxation already extended to the Kashmir Division.
PSAJK Raises Concern Over Learning Loss
President of the Private Schools Association J&K, Nazrul Islam Baba, reiterated that instructional time in many Jammu Division areas was severely disrupted due to regional and situational challenges.
“Parity in education is not negotiable. If learning loss was the yardstick for granting syllabus relaxation in the Kashmir Division, then denying the same relief to Jammu Division students would be discriminatory and academically unethical,” Baba stated.
He emphasized that students should not be penalized for circumstances beyond their control, especially when access to regular schooling was affected.
Key Regions Highlighted
| Region | Issue Highlighted |
|---|---|
| Chenab Valley | Reduced instructional days |
| Poonch | Learning time significantly compromised |
| Other Jammu areas | Regional and situational disadvantages |
According to PSAJK, ignoring these realities could lead to unequal evaluation standards in the board examinations.
Warning Against Academic Disparity
Nazrul Islam Baba further cautioned that selective syllabus relaxation could deepen regional disparities.
“Any deviation from uniform academic relief will only deepen regional disparity and undermine the credibility of the evaluation system,” he said.
The association also expressed full support for student-led demands emerging from Chenab Valley and Poonch, calling them legitimate and justified.
Appeal to JKBOSE & Education Minister
PSAJK has formally urged the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education to take a balanced and fair decision. The association specifically appealed to:
- The JKBOSE Chairman
- Education Minister Sakina Itoo
to intervene decisively and announce syllabus relaxation for Jammu Division students in line with the Kashmir Division.
Why This Demand Matters
- Ensures uniform academic standards across regions
- Prevents regional discrimination in board examinations
- Upholds the credibility of the evaluation system
- Reduces student stress and anxiety ahead of exams
Current Status
| Aspect | Status |
|---|---|
| Official JKBOSE Notification | ❌ Awaited |
| PSAJK Demand | ✅ Reiterated |
| Government Response | ⏳ Pending |