JSU rejects Meghalaya college affiliation proposal

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 31, 2024

The Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) has expressed strong opposition to Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma’s recent proposal to affiliate all colleges in Meghalaya with Captain Williamson Sangma State University in Tura.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the JSU’s primary concern is not with the university itself but with its current developmental stage, which they believe could lead to administrative challenges. The JSU does not support this suggestion and recommends that the state government seek a consensus from various college bodies before making any decisions on affiliation.

The JSU also highlighted the logistical difficulties of implementing this proposal, noting that 55 of the 74 colleges in the state are located in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. They strongly urges the government to refrain from enforcing this affiliation.

In place of the proposed affiliation, the JSU suggests organizing a joint meeting with college bodies and student representatives to thoroughly discuss the matter.

Additionally, the JSU has made several recommendations aimed at improving the examination process. They call on the state government to engage in discussions with the NTA and UGC regarding the conduct of CUET to prevent future issues. They emphasize the need for more examination centers to provide easier access for students and recommend improving internet connectivity in exam areas to ensure smooth biometric verification, thereby minimizing inconvenience.

Furthermore, the JSU urges the government to request that the NTA reduce the CUET application fees, as the current costs are too high for underprivileged students in the state.