Language is more than just a collection of words; it is the bridge that connects dreams to reality and the gateway to a world of opportunity. English, in particular, has become the passport to global connectivity and academic success. Yet, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, while commendably promoting regional languages in primary education, has inadvertently side-lined English by stripping it of its status as a compulsory subject. This shift, though aimed at fostering multilingualism, fails to recognize the pivotal role that English plays in higher education and international job markets. For students in Jammu and Kashmir, who have long pursued English as a key to advancement, this decision could spell disaster. In a world where English opens doors to countless fields from technology to global research making it optional may leave these ambitious learners floundering, struggling to keep pace both nationally and globally.
The new 5 3 3 4 structure of NEP 2020 focuses on foundational learning; however, the absence of English as a core subject threatens the continuity essential for a competitive edge. For students aspiring to thrive in the global job market, proficiency in English is often a decisive factor. Other countries have embraced English as a vital advantage; take China, for instance, which grapples with language barriers due to limited English education, compromising its competitive standing in international arenas. If India follows suit and further diminishes English instruction, it risks facing similar challenges. Students in Jammu and Kashmir, the side-lining of English may inadvertently force them away from public institutions and into private schools, widening the gap and limiting access for economically disadvantaged students. Moreover, since most technical and scientific resources are published in English, reducing its role in education could deprive students of critical knowledge and resources, stunting their academic and professional growth. Adding fuel to the fire, the dire plight of Ph.D. holders in Jammu and Kashmir has pushed them to the brink, forcing many to join the ranks of street vendors.
These highly educated scholars, equipped with expertise in English and advanced research methodologies, now find themselves grappling with jobless due to the new education policy. Hundreds are left in a lurch, unable to secure positions that match their qualifications. This untapped intellectual resource could otherwise play a pivotal role in enriching the region’s academic and economic landscape, but instead, it remains on the side-lines, under- utilized and overlooked.
We appeal to the Honorable Education Minister, especially Dr. Sakeena Itoo, to take a moment to reflect on this policy and weigh its long-term repercussions on education and employment in Jammu and Kashmir. Restoring English as a compulsory subject isn’t just a matter of preserving a language; it’s about empowering our students to seize their futures and enabling the region to compete effectively on the global stage. Today, English has transcended its origins as “the language of England” it has evolved into a vital means of bridging nations and ideas, forming an essential part of modern education worldwide. By preserving English as a cornerstone of our education system, we can secure a brighter future for our students, granting them access to global resources, employment opportunities, and ground breaking research.
Govt must adopt a balanced approach in Jammu and Kashmir, with multilingual learning while ensuring that the language that opens doors remains firmly in place. Let us not allow the language that connects us all to become a silent casualty in the quest for educational reform. It’s high time to raise our voices and ensure that English remains at the heart of academic curricula, empowering our students to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape. Together, let’s pave the way for a future where every student can soar to new heights, equipped with the tools they need to succeed in a world that awaits their brilliance.
Email:-----------------------firdousrashid08@gmail.com
