By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 4: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Mawphlang Unit, has raised concerns over inadequate infrastructure and staffing at the newly established Science and Commerce College in Mawphlang, which began functioning this academic year.
During an inspection on Wednesday, the union found that several key facilities remain incomplete or unavailable. The hostel is yet to be constructed, prompting the KSU to urge the Principal-in-charge to arrange bus services for students’ safety and convenience. The union also stressed the need to expedite the construction of hostels, staff quarters, fencing, and the compound wall.
A visit to the laboratories and library revealed further shortcomings. Although the college building is nearly complete, electricity has not yet been connected. The laboratory is still awaiting equipment, and the library shelves remain empty. The Principal informed the delegation that these matters had already been reported to higher authorities.
The KSU also discovered that the college has no water connection, forcing it to purchase around 3,000 litres of water every month. The absence of electricity, the union warned, not only hampers basic functioning but also leaves the institution vulnerable to theft or vandalism.
On staffing, the KSU obtained information through an RTI which showed that all teaching staff are temporary and deputed from other government colleges. Non-teaching staff have not been formally appointed either, with only three— a peon, a chowkidar, and a Lower Division Assistant (LDA)—currently engaged. The union noted that these appointments were made without advertisement, raising questions about the process. The Principal clarified that they had been engaged by the Education Department as daily wage employees.
Meanwhile, the KSU also highlighted the absence of posts for security guards and cleaners, which it said has compounded concerns, as there is no system in place to ensure cleanliness or monitor entry and exit at the campus.
According to the union’s findings, the college currently has 38 students enrolled—20 in the Commerce stream and 18 in the Science stream.