"Unjustified Decision: The Impact of Extending Retirement Age for University Teachers in J&K" :- Manik Goswami (Joint Secretary ABVP Jammu Mahanagar)

Title: "Unjustified Decision: The Impact of Extending Retirement Age for University Teachers in J&K"

Introduction:

The recent decision by the Jammu and Kashmir government to increase the retirement age of university teachers from 62 to 65 has stirred shock and dismay among various sections of society. This move, although claimed to address vacancies, has far-reaching consequences that go against the principles of quality education and hinder the aspirations of highly qualified youth. As a concerned citizen and Joint Secretary of ABVP Jammu Mahanagar, it is important to shed light on the detrimental effects of this decision.

1. Deteriorating Employment Scenario:

J&K already grapples with a high unemployment rate, and when university vacancies are announced, numerous highly qualified applicants, including Ph.D. holders, apply. By extending the retirement age, the government is denying opportunities for the younger generation, exacerbating the existing unemployment crisis.

2. Crushing Hopes of Aspiring Educators:

Raising the retirement age dashes the hopes of talented and aspiring youth who dream of becoming teachers in prestigious educational institutions. This decision deprives them of the chance to contribute their knowledge and expertise to the highest seats of learning in the region.

3. Hindering Technological Advancements:

The New Education Policy (NEP) emphasizes the use of modern technological tools and online education to enhance the quality of learning. However, many senior teachers on the verge of retirement struggle with even basic technologies like email. This hampers the implementation of NEP's vision and prevents students from receiving the best education possible.

4. Impeding Educational Initiatives:

Initiatives like MOOCs, Swayam, and online courses demand teachers who are well-versed in new technological advancements. By retaining teachers who are technologically inept, the government hampers the growth and progress of these initiatives, which aim to provide world-class education and raise Indian higher education standards to international levels.

5. Contradicting NEP's Vision:

NEP envisions a higher education system that rivals international standards. However, extending the retirement age for university teachers directly contradicts this vision. By prolonging the tenure of older teachers, the government fails to create opportunities for young educators with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.

6. The Need for Young Leadership:

Reducing the retirement age to 60 would allow a new generation of educators with renewed enthusiasm and vision to take charge. Younger teachers are better equipped to adapt to changing times, implement NEP's goals effectively, and contribute to the overall development of the education system.

7. Impeding Young Contributions:

Extending the retirement age hampers the ability of young educators to contribute their best efforts towards implementing NEP's vision. It stifles their potential and denies them the opportunity to shape and revolutionize the education system in line with contemporary needs.

8. Unjustified Excuse for Vacancies:

The government's claim that the extension of retirement age is necessary due to existing vacancies in various university departments is a feeble excuse. It cannot justify such an obnoxious and foolish decision. The inefficiency of universities and the government in filling vacancies should not be compensated by detrimental decisions that compromise the quality of education.

9. Threatening Quality Education:

Moreover, the recent proposal of the Public University Bill by the J&K government, which seems to coincide with the extension of retirement age, further raises concerns about the deterioration of educational standards and quality. It appears as though the government is trading the retirement age extension for consent regarding the bill, which would have long-term negative consequences.

Conclusion:

The decision to extend the retirement age of university teachers in J&K is unjustified and detrimental to the education system. It obstructs the aspirations of highly qualified youth, hinders the implementation of NEP's vision, and undermines the potential of young educators to contribute their best to the development of education in the region. It is crucial for the government to reconsider this decision and focus on creating opportunities for young talent to flourish, thereby paving the way for a brighter future in education.