Srinagar, Oct. 23 -- Education is not merely about completing a prescribed syllabus or increasing the number of instructional days. It is about creating an environment in which children can learn effectively, think independently, remain mentally and physically healthy, develop skills and creativity, and grow into responsible citizens. In this context, the idea of introducing a five-day school week with a two-day weekend deserves serious discussion.

A five-day schooling system should not be viewed simply as giving students an additional holiday. Rather, it should be considered an opportunity to restructure the entire learning process, improve the quality of classroom instruction, provide meaningful independent learning opportunities and p...