The Education Department of Jammu and Kashmir has issued an order to “standardize” morning assemblies across all schools in the region.
This initiative aims to foster unity, discipline, and moral values among students, addressing concerns that the practice is not being uniformly implemented in various educational institutions.
The directive highlights the importance of starting the school day with a positive and organized activity that nurtures moral integrity, community spirit, and mental tranquility.
The order, which a copy is available to The Kashmiriyat, mandates that all schools must conduct a 20-minute morning assembly each day. Both students and teachers are required to gather promptly at a designated area at the beginning of the school day.
A key feature of the new guidelines is the commencement of each assembly with the singing of the National Anthem, adhering to the standard protocol.
Following this, the order requires that three to four students or teachers deliver awareness or motivational talks on a variety of topics each day. These talks are intended to promote leadership qualities and enhance the skills of students as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The topics for these talks will range from discussions on great personalities and freedom fighters to daily school announcements, inspirational speeches, and themes that encourage values such as kindness, diversity, and environmental awareness.
There will also be a focus on recognizing student achievements in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities, as well as discussions on values like honesty, respect, and responsibility.
The order further emphasizes the importance of providing tips on stress management and healthy living, as well as celebrating different cultures, holidays, and historical events.
These elements aim to create a well-rounded educational environment that supports both the personal and academic growth of students.
The Education Department has called on all stakeholders to ensure strict adherence to these guidelines, underscoring the role of morning assemblies in building a cohesive and disciplined student community.