Srinagar, Mar 1 (IANS): Most of the schools in the Kashmir Valley re-opened on Wednesday almost after eight months as students re-united with friends, giving educational institutions a joyful ambience.

Schools in Kashmir were shut after the unrest following the killing of Hizbul leader Burhan Wani on July 8 last year.

Hundreds of people were killed and thousands injured by the security forces during massive protests across Kashmir during the unrest.

Despite attempts by authorities, the schools remained shut during the unrest.

Parents did not allow the move as they showed concern about the security of their children and the separatists had opposed it saying it was the government's roundabout way to bring normalcy in the Valley.

When the unrest ended, winter set in the Valley and the authorities announced the traditional winter vacation in schools that ended on Wednesday.

Although the schools were shut but the board examinations of Class 10 and Class 12 were conducted amid tight security.

Life in Srinagar seemed to have been jolted out of the winter slumber as laughter and clatter of school children brought merriment to cities and towns here.

Parents hoped the academic atmosphere would remain peaceful this year so that students could make up for the loss.

"Accompanying my son to the bus stop to wait for the school bus was an experience I missed for over
seven months.

"I pray the situation remains normal this year so that my son goes to school and lives a normal childhood. He should be able to compete with students outside the Valley", said Sajad Ahmad, 45, whose son is a student of the Burnhall School here.