Srinagar, Aug 25:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday addressed the 'One Day Education Conference' organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Forum, under the evocative theme "Child Is Our Priority." In a speech that balanced administrative clarity with deep emotional resonance, the Chief Minister laid out his government's vision for education while acknowledging the invaluable contributions of the state's teachers.

"Our children are our future"

Opening his address, CM Abdullah declared that the future of Jammu and Kashmir rests squarely on its younger generation. "Jammu and Kashmir's future are our children," he said, setting the tone for a dialogue centered on nurturing and empowering the youth through a robust and responsive education system.

Government to Shoulder Administrative Burden

Recognizing the everyday challenges faced by educators, the Chief Minister made a firm commitment to address structural issues, including inadequate infrastructure and teacher vacancies. He assured the gathering that these are governmental responsibilities, not burdens for teachers to bear. "Infrastructure, vacancies, and much more is my work, not the teachers'," he stated unequivocally.

He further announced that Minister Sakina will personally oversee the resolution of these pressing problems, ensuring prompt and effective action.

Protecting teachers from non-educational duties

In a significant policy statement, CM Abdullah asserted that teachers would no longer be diverted from their primary role for administrative or governmental functions. "We cannot use teachers for our government purposes. Instead, we must listen to their problems and solve them," he said, emphasizing the need to respect their time and professional commitment.

Preparing children for a changing world

Reflecting on the rapid transformations in society over the past three to four decades, the Chief Minister urged teachers to adapt their methods to prepare students for an uncertain and dynamic future. "Teachers have moulded us, but now time is changing. We have to make our children ready for everything," he observed, calling for an education system that builds resilience, adaptability, and critical thinking.

Teachers: The second parents

Perhaps the most touching moment of the address came when CM Abdullah placed teachers on par with parents in their influence on a child's life. "Teachers are equivalent to parents. After parents, the teacher is the only one who makes our children grow, who moulds their character," he said, paying heartfelt tribute to the profession.

A shared vision forward

The conference concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, as the Chief Minister called upon all stakeholders to work collectively toward an education system that is equitable, forward-looking, and deeply rooted in the welfare of every child. His words served as both a reassurance and a call to action-affirming that the government stands firmly with its teachers in shaping a brighter tomorrow for Jammu and Kashmir.