Srinagar: Amid the aftermath of devastating floods, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday urged educational institutions to strengthen early disaster warning systems and engage with local communities to harness their knowledge.
Addressing a Teachers’ Day event at SKICC, Sinha paid tribute to educationist and former President of India, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, and felicitated teachers for their contributions.
“The balance between economic growth and environmental protection is crucial for prosperity and social equity. Our education system should instill the understanding that natural resources are finite, and our youth must work to preserve ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural assets,” he said, according to an official statement.
Sinha highlighted the increasing frequency of natural calamities causing loss of life and damage to infrastructure. “Educational institutions must focus on improving early warning systems and collaborate with local communities to develop nature-based solutions for disaster and climate resilience,” he said.
He tasked the School and Higher Education departments with connecting students to the Green Jammu and Kashmir Drive programme, providing hands-on field experience. “We must revive the age-old tradition of living in harmony with nature. Climate change should be taught as a compulsory subject, complemented with classroom and fieldwork,” Sinha added.
Acknowledging the transformative impact of new technologies on industries and society, he cautioned that natural challenges are also growing. “Youth must take on the responsibility of balancing development with environmental preservation,” he said.
On Teachers’ Day, Sinha conveyed a message for students and educators: “When the pursuit of excellence becomes deeply rooted in your mind, your greatest aspirations and dreams can become reality. Teachers must inspire students to dream big and nurture their character.”
He emphasized that teaching goes beyond science, encouraging educators to impart values and help students develop their unique personalities. “The ultimate goal is to prepare students to face life’s challenges and adapt to rapid global changes,” he said.
Highlighting the role of teachers in the age of technology, Sinha noted, “Teaching cannot be replaced by AI tools, as it relies on experience and wisdom. Yet, with AI reshaping education and industries, teachers must reimagine the system.”
He also called on the School Education and Higher Education departments to establish awards recognizing innovation, new ideas, and research. Sinha concluded by paying homage to those who lost their lives in the recent floods in Jammu and Kashmir.
