WINTER CAMPS AND STUDENT HOLIDAYS

 

Winter holidays are currently underway in Gilgit-Baltistan, following a tradition where the winter vacations in this region are notably longer than those in other provinces, while the summer vacations are comparatively shorter. This practice is not strategically planned, but it provides children with a break from the freezing weather, allowing them to rejuvenate both mentally and physically. In recent years, the concept of organizing a "Winter Camp" has gained popularity, aiming to engage children during their holidays and potentially achieve additional objectives.

Throughout the year, students are consistently immersed in books, curricular activities, and lessons from teachers. Subjecting them to the same routine during the holidays may not sharpen their minds but could certainly affect them psychologically. I argue that we risk creating a generation habituated to the burdens of continuous learning, considering books and educational institutions as perpetual necessities.

I use the term "Chhatkara" (jolt) because winter vacation traditionally serves as a break from the year-long cycle of studying and writing. However, now even these holidays are being overshadowed by "winter camps," compelling students to return to the doors of schools and colleges as if it were an everyday routine. This raises the concern of when these students will experience true "peace" and "relief" from their academic commitments.

Advanced societies worldwide emphasize education that nurtures the heart and mind, while our approach relies heavily on experiences and traditions. It would be beneficial if we could integrate entertaining measures to elevate mental acuity alongside imparting education. It is unrealistic for anyone to dedicate themselves to constant studying, nor can sustained passion for studying be sustained. In the span of 24 hours, individuals also have personal matters that require attention.

However, a student who has recently embarked on the journey of education should ideally be immersed in their studies.

A respite is essential for students to alleviate the fatigue accumulated throughout the year and discover that there are activities beyond studies capable of providing mental refreshment. This break is crucial to ensure optimal performance in the upcoming academic phase. Considering the challenging climatic conditions, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan and Baltistan, where temperatures often plummet to minus 20 degrees, it becomes imperative to shield students from the harshness of extreme weather. Constructive measures should be implemented, considering the prevailing conditions and weather suitability, to make meaningful activities more prominent.

Dated: January 09, 2023