Sheikh Anees
Ganderbal:- A stark illustration of the deepening crisis in rural education unfolded Tuesday as a local wedding ceremony drew the majority of the Rural village’s children away from their classrooms.
This alarming trend is particularly prevalent during marriage season in far-flung areas.
Scores of Government Primary and middle Schools in Tehsil Gund in Ganderbal district found itself nearly deserted, with only one or two students present until lunchtime during the marriage season particularly in far-flung areas of the Tehsil.
These incidents underscores the alarming apathy towards formal education prevalent in many rural areas. The stark contrast between the bustling wedding festivities and the deserted schoolrooms highlights the deep-rooted disconnection between these communities and the value of education.
The lack of student attendance raises serious concerns about the future of these children and the overall quality of rural education.
This incident serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for collective efforts to reconnect rural communities with education.
Education experts suggest that various factors, including poverty, lack of awareness, and inadequate infrastructure, contribute to this alarming trend they said to address this crisis, it is imperative to implement comprehensive strategies that prioritize rural education and organizing awareness campaigns and workshops to emphasize the importance of education.
Experts believe providing quality training to teachers to enhance their pedagogical skills and ability to engage students and offering incentives to students, such as scholarships, to encourage regular attendance.
Teachers struggle to keep students motivated. “We try our best, but it’s difficult when students and their parents don’t see the value in education said a School teacher.
He emphasized the crucial role of community engagement, Community mobilization and awareness campaigns, Door-to-door counseling, Parent-Teacher Association meetings, Involving local Islamic and Social community organizations are vital to change the mindset and behavior of rural communities towards education.
He siad by taking decisive action and fostering a strong commitment to rural education, we can bridge the gap and ensure a brighter future for these young minds.