SHILLONG, APR 6: The Hynniewtrep Youth’ Council (HYC) has strongly opposed the proposed increase in student fees in government colleges across Meghalaya, terming it “unjust and regressive.
“In a letter to Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui on Monday, the Council’s Education Cell said the move would disproportionately burden students from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
“This decision is not only unjust and regressive but also profoundly anti-student, as it disproportionately burdens economically disadvantaged students and those from rural and marginalized backgrounds,” the letter stated.
The HYC argued that government colleges were set up to provide equitable and affordable access to higher education, and any fee hike would undermine that principle.
The Council also questioned the government’s justification that financial autonomy was needed, saying it should not come “at the cost of accessibility and inclusiveness.
“Citing ground realities, the letter noted that delayed scholarship disbursements already leave students in distress, and a fee increase would deepen educational inequality. The Council demanded immediate withdrawal of the proposal, enhanced funding for colleges, timely scholarships, and consultations with students before any policy change.
“The Council reiterates its unwavering stand in support of the student community and will continue to oppose any policy that undermines their rights and future,” HYC Joint Secretary Pynskhem Kharjahrin said.
By Our Reporter
