This article delves into the historical pursuit of societal development, emphasizing the relentless efforts across various realms. It highlights transformative moments, from individuals evolving into masters to villages becoming urban centres. The driving force behind these changes is identified as a passion fuelled by a commitment to hard work and an aversion to stagnation. However, the focus shifts to the higher education system in Jammu and Kashmir, exposing bureaucratic indifference that adversely affects highly qualified but underpaid contractual teachers. The article questions the fairness of this treatment, asserting that it undermines the essence of a welfare state. It concludes by urging collective action for inclusive progress and addressing the grievances of underemployed youth in the educational system.
He did not enter the staff room, he barged in; he did not speak with respect, he shouted at; he did not address a fellow teacher, but a bonded labourer; he did so because he was a permanent college professor speaking to a lecturer appointed on ‘academic arrangement’.
Strangely, though, the lecturer had a PhD from a top Indian Central University and a post-doc from the United States.
Feeling humiliated and rebuked, the lecturer spoke no word. A few minutes later, he groaned and said, “Aah, my hard luck. My research, my experience, my education got me a job of Rs 28,000, and left me to vultures who know me not.” In his pain he murmured, “At home, I am a lecturer, to students I am contractual, to the government I am an academic arrangement, to permanent faculty members I am a nobody, and to the non-teaching staff my writing Dr as my title is abominable”. As he sighed, I was reminded of Colleen Wilcox, an educator and administrator who describes teaching as the greatest act