Assam Students face uncertainty; academic career at stake

PURSUING HIGHER EDUCATION

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Students of Assam aspiring to get them admitted into country's top bracket institutions to pursue higher education are facing uncertainty due to the situation arising out of COVID-19 pandemic and consequent lockdown.

"I am completely at a loss. I have performed well in the Higher Secondary examinations and also expecting a brilliant result. From my school days I have a dream to pursue English literature in Delhi University. But in case the present situation does not improve soon, my dream will be shattered. My parents are not going to allow me to go to Delhi in this present COVID-induced scenario," Sharmistha Barua, a student said.

Science student Sajid Ali said that he has been preparing hard for the last two years to crack the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) to pursue MBBS course.

"The NEET which is usually held in May, has been already postponed. The NEET is scheduled to be held in July. In case I cannot clear NEET, I will take admission in a leading institution under Delhi University to pursue the degree course with Mathematics as a major subject. But in case the NEET is held in July, I may miss the opportunity to take admission in a degree college in Delhi," Sajid said.

Sharmistha and Sajid are not alone. Many students are facing a similar dilemma. A section of students from Cotton University and other degree colleges are planning to meet Education Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to clear doubts and uncertainty over this and related academic issues.

Students' anxiety has also increased following the decision of Board of Secondary Education, Assam (SEBA) to issue digital mark sheets. "Will digital marksheets be accepted by institutions outside Assam?" a student queried.

"We will request Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to solve our problem relating to our dream to pursue higher education outside," Samiran Bora, another student said.

Students have also urged the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) to help them.