Netizens debate perceived ‘easing’ of SSLC exams
In the evolving landscape of education in Meghalaya, the recent discourse surrounding the simplification of SSLC examinations has sparked both optimism and apprehension. While many students have taken to social media to celebrate what they describe as a more “student-friendly” approach, others caution against the unintended consequences of lowering academic benchmarks.
The debate gained momentum after Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma publicly defended the move, noting that every policy reform inevitably comes with its share of trade-offs. For students long burdened by exam anxiety, the change represents a shift toward inclusivity, allowing a broader spectrum of learners to succeed.
“Not everyone is cut out for extreme academic pressure,” a netizen wrote, reflecting a broader sentiment that accessibility in education matters.
Yet, educators and concerned citizens question whether this ease may come at the cost of preparedness, particularly in the context of highly competitive national examinations. Critics argue that easier papers may leave students underprepared for competitive national-level exams like UPSC, where analytical depth is crucial.
Sangma’s parallel concern over the limited number of UPSC qualifiers from the state adds another layer to the conversation. His proposed initiative to support candidates who clear the prelims signals a recognition that foundational education and advanced competitive success must go hand in hand.
As the state manoeuvres to find this delicate balance, the conversation online reflects a larger truth — education reform is never merely about exams; it is about shaping futures.
Shillong’s digital despair
In most corners of Shillong, the promise of seamless connectivity remains a distant dream. What should be a fundamental right, as indicated in court judgments, has become a source of constant despair for residents who pay premium tariffs only to be handed down broken service.
Mobile internet in most parts of the city is not merely slow — it is functionally absent. Signals flicker, drop to 4G or less or sometimes vanish entirely, leaving smartphones as expensive paperweights.
Call drops have become the defining feature of every conversation. Mid-sentence the line dies, or turns into a one-sided conversation. You want to pass on a message or simply greet someone, you have to call more than once. What was once an occasional nuisance is now the norm, baked into the daily rhythm of the city.
The frustration has crossed into despair. There is no escape. No networks offer full relief, be it Jio, or Airtel, or Vodafone, or the BSNL. While Wi-Fi connectivity at homes provide relief, you are left to fend for yourselves once you move out.
Companies blame it on Shillong’s terrain while others point fingers at outdated infrastructure. Citizens are left pleading with customer-care bots on company apps that parrot scripted lines while the problem remains untouched for years. The despair is quiet but profound. Shillong is not offline by choice. It is being forced offline by indifference.
And the wound deepens every 28 days when you have to pay hefty charges for calls and mobile internet packs without getting any service.
The only redressal might be calling up the consumer court, provided the connection is made and the line does not go dead.
