Srinagar: Newly enrolled students for M.P.Ed degree at Central University Kashmir have taken a ‘stand’ to boycott classes over, what they called, ‘sudden and significant’ fee hike in course fees.
A delegation of M.P.Ed students told GNS that the varsity authorities have resorted to sudden increase in their course fees. “When enrolled at the varsity, we were told that the entire course would cost 43,000 INR. However, halfway through the semester, we were informed that the ‘actual fee’ is 80,000 INR,” the student delegation said.
“We voiced our concerns to the Dean of Academic Affairs and the Vice-Chancellor a few months ago. We were given verbal assurances that the fee would be reduced. Unfortunately, ten days ago, the university authorities yet again changed their stance and reverted back to the 87,000 INR fee. Despite our efforts to seek clarity and resolution, we (students) received no response,” they said.
The students argued that this fee increase is excessive and unfair, especially when compared to other reputable universities in India offering similar M.P.Ed degree programs.
“We were deceived by the university and would have made different choices had they let us know about the more than 80,000 INR fee at the time of our admissions. The university is imposing arbitrary charges, causing hardships to us. We largely come from less privileged backgrounds and the university is jeopardizing our educational and career prospects with complete disdain and impunity,” they said.
“We as a mark of protest haven’t attended the classes for past 10 days and are determined to continue this boycott until our demands are addressed by the university authorities,” the students added.
Meanwhile, a top official at CUK told GNS that they’re in receipt of the students’ representation, assuring them that the university is actively considering reducing the fees in the best interests of the students.
