Today News Line JK

Disruption of Student Education Due to Elections in Doda

The temporary suspension of government schools in Doda district for election-related purposes, including their use as polling stations and temporary residences for security forces, has caused significant disturbances to the education system. This practice, while essential for the smooth running of elections, presents several challenges for students, teachers, and parents.

Students lose valuable learning days when schools are closed to facilitate election procedures. In districts like Doda, where infrastructure challenges already impede education, such interruptions can exacerbate the gap in learning. Teachers are left to compress lessons into a shorter period, often causing undue pressure on students, especially those preparing for exams.For students in crucial stages of their education, such as those preparing for board exams, these interruptions can be particularly harmful. Missing classes in the weeks leading up to exams can impact their preparation, leading to stress and affecting overall performance. Many students in rural areas, where alternative education resources like online learning may not be accessible, are left without any means to continue their studies during this time.

School Infrastructure Used for Security Personnel.In addition to serving as polling stations, some schools are used to temporarily house army personnel, adding another layer of disruption. While necessary to maintain law and order during elections, this can delay the reopening of schools even after elections are over. Moreover, the presence of military forces can sometimes intimidate young students when they return to school.The recurring use of schools for elections without a structured plan to mitigate educational disruption risks contributing to long-term setbacks in students’ academic achievements. This is particularly concerning in districts like Doda, where education infrastructure already faces challenges due to geographic remoteness and socio-political factors.

So in future, greater attention could be given to minimizing the impact on students by exploring alternative election venues or enhancing technological resources to allow remote learning during such closures  .
 
Khalid Bashir 
BA LLB.  Student 
8082990714 
[email protected]