Career guidance and counselling – a transformative initiative by the directorate of school education Kashmir

By Javeed Abdullah

X: @the_news_21

Srinagar: In today’s fast evolving academic and professional landscape, career guidance and counselling are no longer optional add-ons to the education system rather they are essential.

The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK), recognizing this critical need, has initiated a comprehensive, structured, and impactful programme aimed at empowering students through timely and meaningful career guidance.

This initiative has seen career counselling sessions being systematically conducted across all higher secondary schools of the Kashmir Division, culminating in impactful district-level programmes that serve as a guiding light for students standing at the threshold of crucial academic decisions.

One such landmark district-level programme was recently conducted at Girls Higher Secondary School at Sogam in Kupwara, setting a benchmark in the effective delivery of counselling services.

This daylong session was not just an event, but a well-thought out convergence of students, educators, administrators, civil society, and policymakers, all committed to sculpting a brighter, well-informed future for the student community.

The Directorate of School Education Kashmir has institutionalized career counselling as a part of its academic and developmental strategy. Trained counsellors, equipped with contemporary understanding and methodologies, have been deployed to interact with students, especially those in classes 10th and 12th, who are at a pivotal stage of their academic journeys.

Each higher secondary school in Kashmir Division has been the site of focused career guidance sessions, ensuring that no student is left unaware or unguided about the array of career paths available to them. These sessions are not limited to classroom lectures but include interactive presentations, real-life testimonials, and hands-on assistance in making subject and stream choices.

The success of the initiative is most visibly manifested in the district-level programmes. These larger, more elaborate events bring together multiple stakeholders, students, teachers, principals, civil society members, public representatives, and educational officers and officials, in a shared space of learning, dialogue, and inspiration.

The District level Career Guidance and counselling session at  Kupwara  hosted by the Chief Education Office and  Girls Higher Secondary School at Sogam, was one such vibrant example. It stood out for its high-level participation, meticulous organization, and inspirational outcomes.

The presence of Dr. G.N. Itoo, (JKAS) Director School Education Kashmir, at Girls Higher Secondary School Sogam underscored the department’s commitment to student welfare. His participation was more than symbolic. It included direct interaction with students, insightful addresses, and a sincere effort to bridge the gap between policy and ground realities.

In DSEK, Dr.G.N. Itoo’s words on the importance of timely career decisions, the broadening scope of opportunities, and the transformative role of education deeply resonated with both students and teachers alike.

Joint Director North, Hakeem Tanveer, (JKAS) further enriched the programme through his articulate and motivational speech. His message, filled with golden words of wisdom, focused on self-belief, strategic planning, and the evolving nature of career landscapes, encouraging students to aim high and work with dedication. He also stressed upon teachers regarding their role in shaping the future of the students and the nation. He believes that such sessions will bring unparalleled changes in the society.

One of the most unique aspects of this district level Career Guidance and counselling at Sogam was the silent yet powerful communication of values such as discipline, decency, dressing and professionalism. This was evident through the conduct, attire, and presence of the attending officers and officials.

Their exemplary sense of decorum set an unspoken standard and left a deep impression on the young minds present. Though it was purely as per the directions of Mehraj Ud Din Shah, Chief Education Officer Kupwara, Who believes in discipline, dedication and development. The event also served as a live demonstration of interdepartmental synergy and teamwork.

The role of CEO Kupwara was particularly highlighted, as his missionary zeal and focused approach were pivotal in organizing the programme. His efforts ensured that the event not only ran smoothly but also became a beacon of inspiration for other districts to follow.

Equally commendable was the role of the trained counsellors who conducted highly engaging sessions on career planning. Their presentations showcased the diverse career avenues available after class 10th and 12th, covering conventional paths like medicine, engineering, and civil services, as well as emerging sectors like digital marketing, aviation, design, and entrepreneurship.

These sessions were prepared with real world insights, success stories, and practical strategies, making them not only informative but also aspirational. Students were given clarity on entrance exams, eligibility criteria, scholarship schemes, vocational alternatives, and skill-based career choices. For many students, it was the first structured exposure to the broader professional world and it left them with clarity and confidence.

The session was presented by DEPO Kupwara Mohammad Iqbal Shah and Mohammad Abbas Gojrey, Teacher Zone Handwara. Students who had appeared in the recent 10th and 12th board examinations were the primary audience of the programme. Their participation was marked by keen attention, curiosity, and active questioning.

Many students reported leaving the event with renewed motivation and a clearer sense of direction. The interaction helped them evaluate their own interests and abilities in light of the opportunities presented to them. For students from remote areas like Sub division Sogam and adjoining areas, this platform was especially significant. It brought the world of possibilities closer to them and showed them that regardless of geography, determination, the right guidance can open doors to success.

The Road Ahead: Institutionalizing Counselling in Schools

The success of this and similar district level programmes sets the stage for even more ambitious interventions. Career counselling must be embedded as a permanent and integral part of the school curriculum. It should not be a once in a year event, but a continuous engagement, beginning from middle school stage.

The Directorate of School Education Kashmir is very keen about this important component of career building and in institutionalizing this process conducts regular refresher training for counsellors, digital resources for students, parent engagement workshops, and industry academia collaborations etc.

Furthermore, a career guidance cell in every higher secondary school—with linkages to district and state-level cells need to be established which will create a sustainable framework that can adapt to changing times and career dynamics.

The Career Guidance and Counselling Programme by the Directorate of School Education Kashmir is not just a policy initiative; it is a vision, a vision of informed students, empowered choices, and brighter futures. The district-level events in all the districts and at Girls Higher Secondary School Sogam, Kupwara, stands as a model of how collective effort, inspirational leadership, and professional counselling can converge to create meaningful impact.

In a world that demands clarity, confidence, and competence from its young generation, such initiatives are not just commendable, they are indispensable. As this journey continues, the hope is that every student in India and Jammu and Kashmir, regardless of background or circumstance, will have access to guidance that helps them unlock their true potential.

About the Author – Javeed Abdullah is an Academician, Author, columnist and a stage-Host. He can be reached at Javeedwrites378@gmail.com