Srinagar, August 14 (Scoop News)-The Jammu and Kashmir Unaided Private Schools Association (JKUPSA), President Showkat Chowdhary, has welcomed the J&K School Education Department’s Circular No. 7-JK(Edu) of 2025 dated 13-08-2025, granting an extension of the exemption from certain provisions of S.O 177 of 2022 till 31st March 2026 for private schools across the Jammu & Kashmir.
Chowdhary said this decision will safeguard the academic interests of thousands of students and provide much-needed breathing space for schools struggling to comply with the complex clauses introduced in the 2023 amendment to the 2006 Education Act under S.O 177.
As a result, many schools faced denial of valid board registrations, leading to tagging of their Class 10th and 12th students with nearby government schools in the 2023–24 session.
In 2024, after consistent efforts by JKUPSA and intervention from senior government officials, a one-time exemption was granted for one year. However, with that exemption nearing expiry, JKUPSA proactively engaged with policymakers for a long-term solution.
Showkat Chowdhary shared that in April 2025, JKUPSA held a detailed meeting with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who understood the gravity of the situation and referred the matter to Education Minister Mrs. Sakina Itoo, with further support from Advisor to CM Nasser Aslam Wani.
“Over the past three months, our Association worked tirelessly with the government, explaining that without urgent intervention, the same crisis would resurface in the new academic session. We are deeply grateful to the Chief Minister, Education Minister, Advisor to CM, Secretary Education, Direction Education Kashmir / Jammu and others for their understanding and prompt action,” said Chowdhary.
The latest circular extends the earlier exemption till 31 March 2026, allowing affected schools to obtain provisional affiliation with JKBOSE and fulfill other formalities necessary for student registration and examination eligibility. The Committee constituted under Government Order No. 1703-JK(GAD) of 2024 has been directed to submit its recommendations within one month for a permanent resolution.
On behalf of JKUPSA, thanked all officials of the School Education Department for their cooperation and for prioritizing the welfare of students. He assured that private schools will continue to work within the legal framework and maintain the highest standards of education.
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