DSEK Allows Remedial Classes During Winter Vacation in Kashmir Division — Key Guidelines Issued
The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK), Government of Jammu & Kashmir, has issued an important circular permitting recognised private educational institutions across the Kashmir Division to conduct remedial and supplementary teaching classes during the winter vacation for the academic year 2025–26. The circular, dated 20 December 2025, comes in response to numerous requests from school heads seeking approval to support students academically despite prolonged winter closures.
Why the permission was granted
According to the circular, school heads highlighted that academic working days in the Kashmir Division remain limited due to factors such as:
- Long winter vacations
- Climatic challenges
- Administrative closures
- Other unavoidable circumstances
Given these constraints, schools proposed conducting remedial classes to help students bridge learning gaps and ensure continuity of academic engagement. After reviewing the submissions, the Directorate agreed to allow classes under strictly regulated conditions.
Key Conditions for Conducting Winter Remedial Classes
The circular emphasizes that permission is conditional, ensuring the safety, comfort, and voluntary participation of students.
Here are the four core guidelines schools must follow:
1. Parental consent & voluntary participation
Remedial or supplementary teaching may only be conducted with prior consent from parents. Participation must remain purely voluntary, ensuring that no student is compelled to attend.
2. No extra fee allowed
Schools have been explicitly barred from charging any additional fees for remedial classes. This step ensures equal access for all students, regardless of financial background.
3. Proper heating facilities required
Given the harsh winter conditions in Kashmir, schools must ensure adequate heating arrangements inside classrooms to safeguard student health and comfort.
4. Fixed class timings
Remedial sessions are allowed only between
⏰ 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
This time window ensures classes are conducted during the warmer hours of the day.
Applies Only to Recognised Private Educational Institutions
The directive applies exclusively to recognised private schools in the Kashmir Division and must be carried out strictly in line with each institution’s recognition status.
The order was issued by the Joint Director (EE), Directorate of School Education Kashmir, and circulated to:
- Secretary, School Education Department
- Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir
- All Deputy Commissioners
- Chief Education Officers
- PA to Director School Education Kashmir
What This Means for Students and Parents
🌟 Academic Support Despite Winter Break
Students struggling in key subjects will have an opportunity to revise concepts, clear doubts, and stay academically active during winter months.
🤝 Full Parental Control
Parents retain the final say over whether their child attends remedial sessions.
💸 No Financial Burden
The “no extra fee” clause ensures remedial support remains accessible and inclusive.
🧣 Safety Measures Required
Mandatory heating arrangements prioritize student well-being.
Why Remedial Classes Matter
Remedial classes play a critical role in:
- Strengthening foundational learning
- Supporting slow learners
- Preparing students for upcoming exams
- Reducing academic stress
- Improving overall performance
In regions like Kashmir where the school year is often disrupted by weather and closures, such measures can significantly benefit students.
Winter Education Policy — A Balanced Approach
The Directorate’s move strikes a balance between:
✔ Ensuring learning continuity
✔ Respecting winter realities
✔ Protecting student welfare
✔ Preventing commercial exploitation
By setting clear conditions, the administration ensures that remedial teaching remains student-centric and welfare-oriented.
Expected Impact on Academic Calendar
Education experts believe that allowing voluntary classes during winter may:
- Reduce syllabus backlog
- Improve exam readiness
- Benefit board-class students in particular
- Promote structured learning instead of private tuitions
However, adherence to safety, health, and fairness guidelines remains essential.
Final Words
The Directorate of School Education Kashmir’s decision to allow remedial classes during winter vacation is a positive step aimed at supporting students academically while ensuring their safety and rights. With clear instructions on parental consent, no-fee policy, heating arrangements, and regulated timings, the circular ensures that learning support continues in a responsible and student-friendly manner.
Parents, students, and school authorities across the Kashmir Division are expected to cooperate to ensure proper implementation of these guidelines.
Stay connected with us for more updates on education news from Jammu & Kashmir. If you have questions or experiences to share about winter remedial classes, feel free to join the discussion in the comments section below!
