ABRSM Advocates for Teacher Safety Amidst Adverse Weather Conditions

Jammu, January 08, 2024:  The Akhil Bhartiya Rashtriya Shakshik Mahasangh (ABRSM) Jammu Kashmir has raised concerns regarding the safety and well-being of teachers facing challenging weather conditions. With a special emphasis on the necessity for teachers to attend schools without students, the organization highlighted the hardships faced, particularly by those covering long distances daily, spanning 50 to 60 kilometers.

In a recent virtual meeting chaired by Devraj Thakur, State President, and Rattan Sharma, State General Secretary, the ABRSM shed light on the pressing issue faced by teachers, notably focusing on the challenges encountered by female educators. The discussion pinpointed the difficulties arising due to inclement weather conditions, significantly risking the safety of teachers with longer commutes.

Recognizing the paramount importance of ensuring teachers’ safety and convenience while maintaining uninterrupted educational delivery, the ABRSM proposed recommendations to alleviate existing concerns. One significant suggestion includes the consideration of conducting online classes until the harsh winter weather subsides, providing a safer and more accessible platform for educators to continue their crucial role in education.

Devraj Thakur, State President, emphasized, “The safety and well-being of our teachers are paramount. Amidst challenging weather conditions, it’s crucial to ensure teachers can fulfill their duties without compromising their safety. We urge educational authorities to consider alternative approaches, such as online classes, to foster a conducive environment for teaching and learning.”

Highlighting the need to factor in educational and well-being impacts during emergencies, Thakur added, “Every emergency is different, but the safety of staff and students should remain paramount. Settings should strive to remain open if safe, with continuous review of risk assessments and policies.”

Devraj Thakur has lodged an appeal urging the director of school education to reconsider the directive of summoning teachers to schools during severe cold weather when students are absent. Thakur emphasizes the lack of purpose in such an arrangement, highlighting the absence of both students and substantive work, making it a disheartening experience. Attending school devoid of students not only lacks productivity but also dampens the essence of the educational environment, offering minimal incentive for teachers to engage in their duties under such adverse weather conditions.

Rattan Sharma, State General Secretary, stressed a collaborative effort in addressing teachers’ concerns, stating, “Our educators shape the future; it’s imperative to collectively ensure their safety, allowing them to focus on providing quality education.”

Rattan Sharma highlighted that in the absence of heating arrangements in schools, teachers are challenged when attending without students present, raising concerns about the comfort and feasibility of conducting classes under such conditions.

The ABRSM is committed to supporting the educational community and stands as a proponent of ensuring a conducive working environment, especially during challenging times. The organization hopes that its recommendations will be earnestly considered by educational authorities, prioritizing teacher well-being while ensuring uninterrupted educational progress.