Education must go beyond marks, says Omar Abdullah
The Chief Minister urged students to develop independent thinking and moral values during an awards ceremony in Jammu.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday called for an education system that prioritises independent thinking and moral values over mere academic performance. Speaking at the ‘Honour & Excellence 2026’ annual awards ceremony of the Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar Education Society (DJSES) at the Convention Centre, Abdullah said students should be encouraged to question existing practices.
According to the Kashmir Observer, the Chief Minister stated that a generation capable of challenging ideas would hold those in leadership positions more accountable. He remarked that such accountability would lead to a better future for Jammu and Kashmir.
Abdullah encouraged students to explore the reasoning behind things and to develop the confidence to ask questions. He also advised students to build reading habits and to use Artificial Intelligence in an ethical and responsible manner to enhance learning.
The Chief Minister noted that the DJSES manages 24 schools across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, educating approximately 28,000 students and employing nearly 1,600 people. He added that the society recorded a 99 per cent pass percentage in the Class X and XII board examinations during the 2025-26 academic year.
Education Minister Shamim Firdous also addressed the event, noting the historical contributions of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and the late Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah to the education system. The ceremony included the recognition of students who excelled in board exams and employees completing 25 years of service.