Srinagar, May 08: The Jammu and Kashmir General Line Teachers Forum (JKGLTF) on Friday condemned remarks made by GN War-former chairman of a private school association, alleging that government school students were unfairly blamed for the growing menace of drug abuse and social degradation.
In a statement issued through its media wing, the forum described the remarks as “irresponsible and misleading” and said such comments were against the spirit of collective responsibility needed to address social issues.
JKGLTF stated that drug abuse is a broader social problem affecting all sections of society irrespective of educational background, economic status or type of educational institution. The forum said linking the issue exclusively with government school students was unjustified and hurt the sentiments of students, parents and teachers associated with government schools across Jammu and Kashmir.
The forum said government schools in the Union Territory have produced professionals and public servants in various fields, including medicine, engineering, administration, sports and academics. It added that teachers working in government institutions continue to contribute towards the educational and social development of students despite facing multiple challenges.
According to the statement, making generalized remarks against government educational institutions amounts to demoralising an entire education system and the people associated with it.
JKGLTF maintained that students studying in both government and private institutions are the collective responsibility of society. The forum stressed that stakeholders, including educators, parents, civil society groups, religious leaders and social organisations, should work together to address the growing issue of drug addiction among youth instead of engaging in blame games.
The teachers’ forum further said that society currently requires awareness, counselling and constructive engagement to combat substance abuse rather than divisive statements that create mistrust and negativity.
Appealing to public figures and responsible individuals to exercise caution in public discourse, the forum urged them to avoid comments that could affect the morale of students and teachers.
JKGLTF reiterated its commitment towards promoting awareness against drug abuse and strengthening moral, educational and social values among students. The forum said it would continue supporting initiatives aimed at protecting youth from social evils and guiding them towards constructive and productive futures.
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