Student Politics
Concern and
Expectations
Ashim Kumar Paul
Today, there is no doubt that student politics has become
completely corrupt. Nearly every day, we see the news and hear about violence
on campus and its ultimate consequence, thanks to the print and electronic
media. In the wake of such repeatedly appalling incidents, the educational
environment is deteriorating which is evident from session jams, tense
educational environment and the rising insecurity of both teachers and
students. Moreover, the government’s image is being hampered due to the atrocious
activities taking place in various educational institutions, all in the name of
student politics, by students who claim to be part of the ruling party.
However, this has not always been the true aim of student politics. If we look back at our historic language movement, it was the student society which came forward to speak out against the browbeaten choice of the ruling government. Similarly, student politics continued its movement in the crucial moments of 1962, 1966 and 1969. Consequently, this generated the spirit of freedom and led to the birth of this nation in 1971. Even during our glorious Liberation War, our students were actively involved in freeing our motherland and its people from the shackles of the inhuman Pakistani forces. From the glorious days when student politics was held in high regard, Bangladeshi student politics has now been reduced to student activists carrying arms, mercilessly assaulting other groups or individuals. It is now a matter of disgrace for both our country, and our government.
Thus, reviewing the prevailing scenario, many concerned veteran personalities opine that student politics in educational institutions must be banned to restore normalcy in the learning arena. However, I believe that banning student politics can, in no way, be termed as the right
However, this has not always been the true aim of student politics. If we look back at our historic language movement, it was the student society which came forward to speak out against the browbeaten choice of the ruling government. Similarly, student politics continued its movement in the crucial moments of 1962, 1966 and 1969. Consequently, this generated the spirit of freedom and led to the birth of this nation in 1971. Even during our glorious Liberation War, our students were actively involved in freeing our motherland and its people from the shackles of the inhuman Pakistani forces. From the glorious days when student politics was held in high regard, Bangladeshi student politics has now been reduced to student activists carrying arms, mercilessly assaulting other groups or individuals. It is now a matter of disgrace for both our country, and our government.
Thus, reviewing the prevailing scenario, many concerned veteran personalities opine that student politics in educational institutions must be banned to restore normalcy in the learning arena. However, I believe that banning student politics can, in no way, be termed as the right
It is often argued that private universities enjoy the privilege of a healthy educational environment and semesters free of session jam mainly because of the lack of student politics. Although this may be true, it should be noted that most of our leading national political leaders and renowned personalities work for students’ political wings, engaging in various kinds of national, political and socio-economic issues. As their contribution to our national policy is considerable, the significance of student politics cannot be denied.
Regardless of the present condition of student politics in various higher educational institutions, it must be held in high esteem for its bright prospect in terms of national, socio-politic and economic interests. Student politics can bring about positive changes in the traditional outlook and movement of national politics. Only spirited youngsters with a positive outlook and a strong head on their shoulders can help establish the true image of Bangladesh. Student politics is considered the root of our national politics and its progress. It is high time that necessary steps are taken.
Although the present election commission has recommended political parties to snap off any link with student wings, most student wings are still supported by the main political parties. Therefore, all these political parties need to take effective steps to amend the prevailing status of student politics, ensuring that our educational institutions turn into a better place for learning. Thereby, an environment will be created that helps give birth to competent, dedicated national leaders. Apart from cutting off the clandestine connection between major parties and their student wings, other steps should be taken as well. Firstly, only meritorious, competent and liberal students should join and work for the political wings of an institution. Secondly, meticulously maintaining order and discipline in student parties, ignoring nepotism and other bigotry, should be added to the vision of student politics. In addition, the authorities of educational institutions should bear the responsibility of ensuring the efficient use of student politics. The student union elections should be organised at the right time and residential hall seats alloted based on the students’ merits. If all these changes are implemented, an enhanced and stable educational environment can be created.
I believe I am like a man who is standing in the central line between optimism and pessimism - often inspired by optimism and sometimes captivated by pessimistic views. For a country that shows bright prospects, a country that promises to ensure a healthy educational environment in the coming days, I must be prejudiced in my views because of my optimistic self. I believe student politics in Bangladesh should be snapped out of its prevailing anarchic status to be replaced by the glorious panorama that it really deserves.
