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Jammu- Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday called for an education system that goes beyond academic performance and marks, emphasising the need to nurture independent thinking, moral values and the ability among students to question existing practices.
Addressing the annual awards ceremony of the Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar Education Society (DJSES), titled ‘Honour & Excellence 2026’, at the Convention Centre here, the Chief Minister said Jammu and Kashmir needed a generation that was inquisitive, willing to challenge ideas and capable of understanding what was happening around them.
“There are no stupid questions, there are only stupid answers,” Omar remarked, encouraging students to develop the confidence to ask questions and explore the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind things.
He said a generation willing to question existing practices would make those in positions of responsibility more answerable and contribute towards a better Jammu and Kashmir.
“A generation that is happy to ask questions will make all of us answerable. And if we are answerable, Jammu and Kashmir tomorrow will be a better place,” he said.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the purpose of education should not be limited to securing marks or achieving academic excellence but must also involve developing well-rounded individuals with strong moral values and the ability to distinguish between right and wrong.
Recalling his association with the Diocese’s educational institutions, particularly Burn Hall School in Srinagar, where he studied until Class 5, Omar shared memories of his school days and appreciated the institution’s contribution to education and character-building.
He lauded the Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar Education Society for managing 24 schools across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, educating around 28,000 students and providing employment to nearly 1,600 people.
“These schools produce civil service officers, police officers, doctors and business leaders. But more than anything else, they produce successful people who remain good people,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of independent learning, Omar urged students to cultivate reading habits and use Artificial Intelligence responsibly and ethically. He said technology should enhance learning and understanding rather than replace individual effort, critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.
The Chief Minister congratulated students who excelled in the Class X and XII board examinations and commended employees completing 25 years of dedicated service. He also appreciated the Society’s efforts in recognising distinguished alumni whose achievements, he said, could inspire younger generations.
The Society recorded an overall pass percentage of 99 per cent in the Class X and XII board examinations during the 2025-26 academic year.
He said that beyond professional and academic achievements, the most important responsibility was to remain good human beings and treat one another with kindness and compassion.
Minister for Education Shamim Firdous, in her address, recalled the contribution of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad in laying the foundation of the education system in independent India. She also highlighted the role of late Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah in giving a new direction and vision to education in Jammu and Kashmir.
She expressed hope that educational institutions would continue to uphold these values and contribute towards developing responsible members of society.
The Chief Minister also extended greetings on the forthcoming festival of Diwali, wishing people peace, happiness and humanity.
Rt. Rev. Ivan Pereira, Bishop of Jammu-Srinagar and President of DJSES, Rev. Fr. Sebastian Nagathunkal, Vice President of DJSES, and other officials of the Society were present on the occasion.
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