On My Way to Sopore

A Heartfelt Journey to Sopore, Kashmir

Today’s postcard brought great, happy news of Hamid; he passed with good grades and has written about his further studies. Hamid – my connection with the valley.

Tryst with education

Mother of all professions, educators go a long way to cope with changing scenarios. I offer my absolute and profound salute and gratitude to all the educators who cross everyday life barriers to reach out to students and form the next generation.

The Scenic Path

“The road is black and winding, with apple and apricot orchards lined on both sides of the road. We could see the snow-capped mountains in the distance, and at the foothills are cone-shaped chinar trees, tall and green. Shepherds in traditional Kashmiri dress hustling their flocks of sheep, a lonely house with the tinned roof; the silence is eerie and a bit scary too.

We are traveling to Sopore, 145km North-West of Srinagar; this modest town is situated in the Baramullah district of Kashmir, also known as the “Apple Town” of Kashmir, which is the second-largest fruit market (Mandi) in Asia.

Fearless beings walk the Path

From nowhere, this bunch of kids walking through the green meadows in school uniform caught our eyes, and we couldn’t resist getting down and interacting with them, there when I say no human being around, these children caught us by surprise We found Hamid and his friends walking 7 Kms to school every day.

Being educators, we are curious to know about the education in the valley. At our request, we are graciously welcomed to see and understand the education pedagogy and best practices to see if we could help in any way.

We understand that the Civil War has taken its toll on the people and the state; children and education have borne the brunt of the political scenario. The extreme climatic conditions and many unapproachable villages are left without proper education.  Students and teachers walk miles and, with meager resources, try to make as much as possible. Many people and organizations though trying to come forward and help out but situations around change suddenly and drastically bring all to a halt.

Spreading smiles and building the generations

Upon reaching the school, we see it’s time for morning assembly. Students are getting off the buses, the windows of which have fabricated iron safety guards, and a shiver passes through as I understand the extra safety measures.

As we are greeted by chubby red-cheeked children in uniform, I remember my school students, the smiles, the laughter the banter are the same. What is missing is the twinkle in the eyes. Accepting all the greetings with beautiful Kashmiri rose bouquets, we enter a packed hall. Amidst the welcome applause, we are seated, and immediately, what catches our eyes on the table are bowls placed with succulent apples, apricots, and almonds. Major produce of the valley.

The cultural representation by the students in Kashmiri traditional attire is very heartwarming. The Kashmiri attire has always been the highlight, being colorful and paired with silver jewelry, the students look stunning. Ideas and stories are shared, Help is extended for the cultural exchange, but what remains with us is the story of Hamid.

Hamid’s Story

A little boy from a nearby village who is very fond of studies, but he is unable to attend school as he needs to fend for his family. The boy often tries to sneak into the school but rarely manages. With a family of 4 people, Hamid, 12 years old, does odd jobs to get food for the day. This is the story of many in the valley, with the earning member lost to the Civil War, the age when they should be having books in hand, they are working for a livelihood.

Access to modern teaching technology and resources is just enough, but the shine and zeal of the students in the Sopore School and in mine are the same. The civil war has had grave effects on Education. We are overwhelmed by the gesture of the school Owners, students, and educators.

Salam to the educators

Much needs to be done for the creators of the future, But I along with my educator colleagues believe the best return for us educators is when our students grow up and come back to lend a hand in any and every possible way when you are remembered, mentioned and quoted you understand that you have impacted the lives of the students. Having generations of educators in my family, they and I have thrived and spent our lives on this one feeling of respect the fraternity holds.

It is indeed very humbling to know about the younger generation, which is coming forward to bring about a change, where many generations have gone without formal education in the valley. At the same time, I thank the education system for its stringent provisions for every child’s education.

Happy Hamid

As we keep track of Hamid through the school, checking on him and his education, where he proudly tells his friends about his dreams and aspirations, we feel happy that we could help in a small way.

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