SRINAGAR, Nov 23: The Director of School Education, Kashmir (DSEK), Dr. Tasaduq Hussain, stated today that winter vacations will be announced only after the examinations conclude.Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event, Hussain emphasized that the Government is currently focused on ensuring the smooth conduct of examinations, which will commence on Monday.
“A decision on winter vacations will be taken after the results are declared,” he said.
“Once the results are announced, we will issue notifications for new classes and decide accordingly. However, if weather conditions worsen, a decision may be taken earlier.”
The Director Education assured that the announcement regarding winter vacations would be made at an appropriate time, reiterating: “Not before the exams are conducted.”
On the issue of private schools charging admission fees and other levies, Hussain clarified that such matters fall under the jurisdiction of the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC), headed by a retired justice.
He stressed that clear directions have been issued prohibiting the collection of admission or capitation fees by private schools.
“If any violations are reported, we will investigate and take necessary action, including warnings or, in severe cases, derecognition of the school,” he said.
“There are clear orders in place, and the government takes this issue very seriously.”
Hussain also reiterated that both Government and private schools are mandated to prescribe books approved by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE).“An order has already been issued in this regard, and it remains a standing directive,” he added.
Regarding the distribution of free books after the declaration of results, as announced by Cabinet Minister Sakina Masood, Director Education informed that instructions have been issued to JKBOSE for printing and distribution.
“We have already held meetings on this, and the directives will be implemented in letter and spirit,” he said.
Responding to concerns about the lack of heating arrangements in schools during the upcoming exams, Hussain assured that necessary measures are being taken.
“We have directed schools to arrange for heating wherever possible. Where it is not feasible, alternative arrangements through hiring should be made,” he explained.
