Meghalaya college teachers to boycott 1st Sem classes over NEP, Edu Min says student’s interest supreme

In light of recent developments regarding the implementation of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) from August this year for the Undergraduate (UG) level, the Meghalaya College Teachers’ Association (MCTA) has decided to launch a non-cooperation movement against NEHU by boycotting the first semester classes under FYUP (Four Year Undergraduate Programme).

The MCTA strongly condemned the callous, impassive and obstinate attitude exhibited by the NEHU administration, particularly the Vice Chancellor, Professor Prabha Shankar Shukla in pushing forward the implementation of NEP 2020 without the necessary approvals.

MCTA said that it decided to take the action to safeguard the interest of all stakeholders, particularly the students.

All MCTA members have been asked to boycott first-semester classes and refuse any responsibilities associated with the implementation of NEP 2020 from August 1, 2023.

However, there would not be any disruptions to the third and fifth semesters’ classes, said MCTA in a notification.

Speaking on the matter, State Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma said that any development or decision should be made keeping in mind the students’ interest.

He said, “I am aware of the development. Let the NEHU and the head of the institution coordinate and let them decide what they want to do. However, I think, at any development or decision students’ interests must be the top priority.”

“We can understand the ramifications and consequences of not starting the NEP 2020 this year. When a change happens, there are always challenges and problems in institutions. As a government, we are here to support all our institutions and we will find out a way how to support our institutions in implementing NEP 2020, if they decide to go ahead with it this year,” he added.