By: Astha Raghav
Student unrest is one of the problems of the day. The problem, however, cannot be analyzed properly unless we view it in the larger context of general unrest and discontentment in the country. As the things are, there is growing dissatisfaction everywhere. Prices are soaring and the burden of taxation is growing heavier. Corruption is rampant everywhere. Academic institutions are no exception to it these have polluted the student’s minds and created unrest in their hearts. Growing frustration is the root cause of student’s unrest. An average student has nothing but frustration in store for him, especially in the matter of employment. He joins one or the other course of study without any definite aim of his life, so he is frustrated.
Political exploitation is another cause of student unrest. The vested interests in all political parties try to use the force of students for their personal ends. They patronize the student leaders in times of their union elections and ultimately use the academic atmosphere. They often instigate the students to indulge in anti-social and subversive activities.
The teacher-taught relationship has undergone tremendous change in recent years. Materialism has stuck deep roots in our thoughts and our teachers are more concerned about their own prospects than about those of their students. As a result, the student feels let down and confused, unable to find anyone to give him proper guidance. Maladministration of academic institutions is also responsible for indiscipline among students. The uncertainty of the future caused by unemployment instigates the students to indulge in anti-social and subversive activities.
We cannot neglect the effects of mass media on students. With the fast-developing means of communication the world is coming closer day by day and the developments in one corner of the globe do not fail to affect others. If a student-led revolution takes place in some countries, their actions will naturally influence their counterparts in India. Students have been at the forefront in bringing about political upheavals in different parts of the world, no wonder; the Indian students feel they can do something similar here too. Student unrest is a social problem. It is to be tackled by responsible leaders and public-spirited men of society. The important remedy to the problem is that efforts should be made to increase opportunities for employment and education should be, as such, geared towards more of the professional career than mere academic pursuits. The academic environment should be improved and closer parent-teacher contact assure. The energies of the students should de-channelized towards a purposeful life. It should be a combined effort of educationists, parents, and leaders.
Thank You!
