Srinagar, Nov 9: The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has issued a standardized date sheet for students from class 1st to 9th, marking the revival of the November session for the academic year. The announcement comes just days after the Jammu and Kashmir government formally restored the November examination session, a move seen as a return to the traditional school calendar.
The summative assessments for all schools in the Kashmir division are scheduled to commence on November 25, 2024 and will conclude by the first week of December. This initiative aims to allow schools to transition smoothly into the new academic year by mid-December.
Restoring the November Session: A Strategic Shift
The decision to restore the November session was formally announced on October 30, 2024, by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The National Conference-led government has stated that this shift aligns with educational goals for better adaptation to Kashmir's climatic conditions and improves educational continuity.
The Director of School Education Kashmir, Tasaduq Hussain, confirmed that the date sheet aligns with the School Education Department's proposal for a standardized examination session. "With this structure, we aim to conclude the academic year on a consistent schedule that benefits students and aligns with the regional climate," he said.
Examination Schedule and Format
As per the official notification, the assessment for classes 1st to 9th will commence on November 25, 2024. The exams for classes up to 5th will conclude on December 4, 2024, while students in classes 6th to 9th will complete their assessments by December 6, 2024.
A separate notification from DSEK specifies that exams for vocational subjects for 9th-grade students will be held after December 6, 2024, allowing sufficient time for school-based evaluations.
The DSEK further clarified that all question papers would be designed by individual schools, based on the student evaluation and assessment scheme. The assessment is intended to reflect competencies, curricular goals, and learning outcomes as outlined in the holistic progress card system. School heads have been instructed to ensure timely evaluation of answer sheets, with results expected to be declared by December 15, 2024.
Emphasis on a Student-Friendly Approach
In an effort to alleviate examination stress, DSEK has reiterated that the summative assessments will be conducted in a school-based, student-friendly format. Director Tasaduq Hussain assured parents and students that the exams would be conducted with flexibility, mindful of the syllabus coverage.
“We are aware that nearly 90% of the syllabus for these classes has been covered,” Hussain explained. “Students should not worry as we aim for an evaluation process that supports their well-being while effectively assessing their learning.”
Transition to New Classes by December 20
With exams concluding in early December and results expected by mid-month, DSEK plans to start the new academic year for all students on December 20, 2024. This prompt transition is intended to maximize learning time and provide a streamlined educational experience.
Conclusion
The uniform date sheet and the revival of the November session underscore DSEK's commitment to a structured, student-centered approach in Kashmir. This initiative is expected to foster a balanced academic environment, aligning examination schedules with the region’s climate and ensuring minimal academic disruption.