OnlyKashmir.in News Desk

Srinagar: Dr. Owais Mattoo, Director of The Cardiff School in Budgam, has received the Top 20 School Director’s Award 2026 at the Edu Leaders Conclave held at The Lalit hotel in Srinagar. The recognition honours his contribution to educational development, academic excellence and institutional leadership in the Kashmir Valley.

The award acknowledges achievements in several areas, including teaching standards, modern infrastructure, student participation, improved learning facilities and effective school management. Dr. Mattoo’s selection highlights the importance of collective efforts by school administrators, teachers, students and parents in creating an environment that supports academic achievement and the overall development of young learners.

The Edu Leaders Conclave brought together educationists, school leaders and representatives from the education sector to recognise initiatives aimed at strengthening educational standards and encouraging innovative teaching practices.

Dr. Mattoo also serves as District President and Director of Media and Communications of the Jammu and Kashmir Private Schools Association. Speaking to the media, he said quality education required dedicated teachers, effective academic planning, modern facilities and cooperation among school management, parents and students.

He emphasised that educational progress should not be measured solely through examination results. Participation in sports, cultural programmes, competitions and other extracurricular activities, he said, was equally important for developing students’ confidence and abilities.

Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Dr. Mattoo acknowledged the contributions of the school’s management, teaching and non-teaching staff, students and parents. He said their collective efforts remained central to the institution’s progress and its commitment to providing quality education.