Excited Faces, Spotless Spaces: Kashmir’s Schools Reopen with a Shine

Srinagar, July 18: After a 10-day summer break, schools across Kashmir reopened today, welcoming back eager students and dedicated teachers. The reopening was accompanied by a government mandate instructing all Heads of Institutions (HoIs) to initiate a comprehensive cleanliness drive.
As students streamed back into their schools, the pleasant weather added to the excitement. Twelve-year-old Aisha Mir, a 7th-grade student at a local middle school, expressed her joy: “I’m so happy to be back! I missed my friends and teachers. The break was nice, but I was getting bored at home.”

The government directive emphasizes the importance of thoroughly cleaning and maintaining classrooms, toilets, corridors, and open areas to ensure a hygienic environment for all. Farooq Ahmed, Principal of a high school in Srinagar, commented on the initiative: “We fully support this cleanliness drive. It’s crucial for the health and well-being of our students and staff. We’ve organized teams to ensure every corner of our school meets the highest standards of hygiene.”
Many students shared their enthusiasm for the cleanliness drive. Fifteen-year-old Junaid Khan said, “It feels good to come back to a clean school. We’re learning that keeping our surroundings clean is our responsibility too.”
Teachers took the opportunity to reiterate the importance of cleanliness and hygiene, aligning with the government’s directive. Shabnam Qureshi, a science teacher, explained: “We’re incorporating lessons on hygiene and environmental consciousness into our curriculum. It’s not just about clean classrooms; it’s about fostering a lifelong habit of cleanliness.”
The focus on hygiene aims to protect the health of students and staff while instilling valuable lessons about personal responsibility and community well-being. Headmaster Bashir Lone noted, “This initiative goes beyond just cleaning. It’s teaching our students about civic responsibility and the impact of their actions on the community.”
Students across different age groups expressed their readiness to contribute to the cleanliness efforts. Nine-year-old Zainab Bhat enthusiastically shared, “My friends and I are planning to start a ‘Clean Class Club’ to keep our classroom tidy every day!”
As the school day progressed, the corridors buzzed with the familiar sounds of learning and laughter. The reopening marked not just a return to academic routines but also a renewed commitment to creating a healthier, cleaner educational environment across Kashmir.
With the summer break behind them, students and teachers alike are looking forward to a productive and hygienic academic term ahead.