In a proactive measure to ensure the safety of school-going students, the Office of the Chief Education Officer in Doda District has issued a circular advising all Heads of Institutions (HOI’s) to refrain from organizing any excursion or picnic activities during the current autumn season until the conclusion of the current academic session.
The decision comes in response to reports of wild animals appearing in various parts of the district, raising concerns about the potential risks posed to students during such outings. It is pertinent to mention that recent bear attacks in the Kastigarh area, one of which tragically resulted in a fatality, as per The Chenab Times, have underscored the urgency of ensuring the safety and security of students, particularly in areas where wildlife encounters are a growing concern.
The circular, bearing reference number CEO/D/Excur./ and dated 14th September 2022, was issued by the Chief Education Officer in Doda. It highlights the paramount importance of safeguarding the well-being of students, particularly in light of the unpredictable presence of wild animals in the region.
The communication has been disseminated to various key stakeholders, including the Deputy Commissioner of Doda, the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Bhaderwah, and Sub-Divisional Magistrates/Tehsildars across the district. This widespread distribution ensures that local authorities are informed of the decision and can take appropriate actions as needed.
Furthermore, the circular has been forwarded to Principals, Zonal Education Officers, and Headmasters of all schools in the district. This step ensures that educational institutions at the grassroots level are well-aware of the directive and can comply accordingly.
While the decision to suspend excursion and picnic activities may disappoint students who look forward to these outings, the safety and security of students remain the top priority for educational authorities in Doda District. This proactive approach aims to mitigate potential risks associated with encounters with wild animals.
As the academic session progresses, educational institutions will remain vigilant and monitor the situation closely, with the hope that the circumstances will improve, allowing for the safe resumption of such activities in the future.
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Haseena Ayoob is a regular contributor of The Chenab Times.
