SAJJAD IQBAL
sajjadiqbal107@gmail.com
During summer the tribal population migrate to higher pastures with their livestock, a dedicated group of teachers follows, braving harsh conditions to educate tribal children. These seasonal teachers are the unsung heroes of education, working tirelessly to bridge the knowledge gap for tribal students.It is very unfortunate that Jammu and kashmir Government’s budget for 2026-2027 has no mention of any regularization policy for seasonal teachers.
The struggle of these highly educated seasonal teachers is real, and it’s not just about the harsh weather conditions or the rugged terrain. It’s about the job security, infrastructure, inadequate facilities, and the constant uncertainty that comes with being a seasonal teacher. Despite these challenges, these educators persevere, driven by their passion for teaching and their commitment to their students. Seasonal teachers face numerous challenges. They work without electricity, proper infrastructure, or even basic amenities. Their classrooms are often makeshift tents , vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. Imagine teaching a class of 30 students in a tent, with the wind howling outside and the sun beating down. That’s the reality for many seasonal teachers in Jammu and Kashmir.
Despite these obstacles, they use innovative methods to engage students and make learning fun. They use storytelling, and games to keep their students engaged, often going the extra mile to ensure that their students understand the material.
Seasonal teachers are paid meager wages, often delayed, and lack job security. They work for six months, with no guarantee of continued employment. Many have been working for years, with no prospects for regularisation or career growth. Their struggles are often overlooked, and they remain un recognised for their contributions.
The financial struggles of seasonal teachers are real. Many have families to feed, and the delayed payments make it difficult for them to make ends meet. Despite this, they continue to work, driven by their passion for teaching and their commitment to their students.
However, more needs to be done to address the concerns of seasonal teachers so that tribal students can get their basic education in a continue manner. The government needs to take a more proactive approach, engaging with local communities and involving them in the decision-making process.
To improve the functioning of seasonal centers, the government should frame a Permanent Job Policy for seasonal teachers, Government must recognise their services and their experience and expertise can make policy better.
Government should Provide teachers with training and capacity-building opportunities,
Goverment should Ensure timely and adequate funding for seasonal schools,
Government should Engage with local communities and involve them in the decision-making process,Government should Integrate technology into the classroom, providing students with access to digital resources and tools.
The seasonal teachers of Jammu and Kashmir are a shining example of dedication and commitment to education. It’s time for the government to recognise their contribution and provide them with a stable and secure future.
The story of seasonal schools in Jammu and Kashmir is one of resilience and determination. It’s a story of teachers who tack several kilometer of difficult terrain and rivers in upper reaches of pirpanjal and other hilly areas to educate their students, despite the odds. It’s a story that needs to be told, and it’s a story that needs to be heard.
As the government and policymakers look for solutions to improve tribal education, they need to look at suffering of the seasonal teachers and tribals students of Jammu and Kashmir. These schools are a model for how education can be delivered in remote and challenging areas, and they deserve support and recognition.
The seasonal schools of Jammu and Kashmir are a beacon of hope for tribal students. They represent a chance for a better life, a chance for a brighter future. It’s time for the government to recognise the importance of these schools and provide them with the support they need to thrive.
(Author is a columnist and can be reached at sajjadiqbal107@gmail.com)
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