“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Winter vacations in Kashmir, traditionally characterized by repetitive assignments and rote learning, are due for a transformative change. In today’s rapidly evolving world, success demands more than memorization—it requires creativity, problem-solving, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. These are the skills that define the future, and the time has come to rethink how we use the winter break. Instead of a period of academic stagnation, winter vacations should become an opportunity for growth, preparing children for the challenges they will face in the world beyond school.
Globally, many countries have reimagined how holidays can serve as a platform for creative and impactful learning. Finland, renowned for its progressive education system, integrates coding workshops, art explorations, and outdoor activities during breaks. These aren’t just leisure activities but are designed to foster problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration—skills that are essential in today’s world. Russia offers creative programs, such as music and theater, to cultivate emotional intelligence and teamwork. In Germany, winter camps focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), helping children connect classroom theories with real-world problems. These examples demonstrate that vacation time can be a period of development rather than a break from learning.
Kashmir, too, can embrace this shift. Instead of assigning monotonous homework, students could explore mathematics through puzzles and practical applications. For example, they could learn budgeting by managing a mock household or understand geometry through hands-on construction projects. Language skills could be enhanced through storytelling and debates, which would boost communication and self-expression. Art workshops could serve as a platform for creativity, inspiring children to find innovative solutions to everyday challenges. These activities don’t just teach technical skills—they also build resilience, confidence, and a passion for learning.
As Albert Einstein wisely said, “Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one learned in school.” Winter vacations can become an arena for skill-based learning that prepares students for the future. Workshops on coding, culinary arts, or even basic first-aid training could prove invaluable in today’s world. In a region like Kashmir, rich in cultural heritage, heritage walks and storytelling sessions could provide a deeper connection to the region’s history. Environmental programs focusing on sustainable farming or recycling could foster eco-consciousness, encouraging children to become responsible global citizens. These hands-on, meaningful activities can help students develop the critical thinking and practical skills necessary to thrive in the competitive world we live in.
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” – W.B. Yeats
Kashmir, with its long winters, offers a unique opportunity to break away from the traditional, decades-old educational system that often limits student potential. The world has moved forward, and so must we. Winter vacations should no longer be a time of burdensome assignments but rather a season of exploration and development. By adopting practices from countries like Finland, Russia, and Germany, Kashmir can ensure that its children are not just well-educated but well-prepared to succeed in the modern world.
The time to act is now. Let us transform winters in Kashmir into a beacon of innovative learning and set the foundation for a brighter, more promising future.
By Dr. Muzafar Ahmad Pandit
Professor and Writer
[email protected]
