Amid a backlash over revised school timings, Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Tuesday said the decision is not final and can be reviewed.
The education department on Monday changed the timings of all schools in Kashmir and the winter zone of the Jammu division. The schools, which were closed for summer vacations due to a prolonged heatwave, reopened on Tuesday.According to an education department order, the timings for schools falling within the municipal limits of Srinagar will be from 7:30 am to 11:30 am and the timings for those outside the Srinagar municipal limits will be 8 am to 12 noon.
Prior to the summer break, the schools started around 9 am.
The revised timings evoked a sharp reaction from many quarters, including parents. Opposition leaders also questioned the practicality of the move.
“(I have) received many calls (over the change in school timings). I want to say that these (revised school timings) are not final. If we feel that there is a need to make changes in the timings, then we can do it,” Itoo told reporters in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district.
In case there is some problem with the timings, adjustments can be made. People and students need not worry, she said.
Itoo said the government wants children to study as examinations are approaching.
“We have the November session and we want them to complete their studies. The endeavour behind reopening the schools after vacations and changing the timings is that the students should complete their syllabus because… examinations are in October,” she said.
“We want the students from J&K to study and excel,” the minister said.
It is not clear how long the revised school timings — aimed at countering the heatwave — will remain in place.
Heavy rains significantly brought down the temperature in Kashmir on Monday. The weather department has forecast more rain over the next 48 hours.
On June 21, authorities in Kashmir announced a 15-day summer break — from June 23 to July 7 — for all schools across the valley due to the soaring temperatures.
