By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 30: The St. Anthony’s College administration has stirred a controversy with its recent decision to enforce compulsory uniforms for college students, effective from the upcoming academic session in 2024-25.
A frustrated third-semester student, opting anonymity due to potential backlash, expressed discontent over the imposition, emphasising those college students, being adults, should have the autonomy to decide their attire. This move, according to the student, not only burdens families financially but also infringes upon their freedom.
In contrast, a fifth-semester student, relieved that this would be their last year, remarked, “I dodged a bullet I was starting to get emotional owing to the limited time I had in here, but thank God I am leaving.”
The directive excludes fifth-semester students and introduces a deadline for first and third-semester students to acquire the specified uniform set before the commencement of the new academic session of 2024-25.
The mandated uniform comprises a dark navy blue blazer, two trousers, two white shirts, two pairs of dark navy blue socks, and a pullover.
Another concerned student argued against the shortsightedness of this decision, expressing fears that mandatory uniforms might discourage potential candidates from choosing St. Anthony’s College.
“The imposition of mandatory uniforms will discourage potential candidates from choosing St. Anthony’s College. The fear is that this rule might deter future students, leading to a potential 50% reduction in admissions. Such a decline would not only affect the diversity of the students but also the overall academic environment,” the student stated.
Furthermore, the student highlighted the adverse effects on those engaged in part-time work and extracurricular activities, raising concerns about how the imposition could limit opportunities for involvement outside academic realms.
The Shillong Times also tried to reach out to the teachers but they refused to comment on the directive.
