In a joint press release issued today, the All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK) and the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) voiced strong condemnation against a recent statement made by Advisor School Education & SCERT, Dr Kekhrielhoulie Yhome where he implied that primary teachers will not be recruited from the Sumi and Ao communities for the next ten years. The Advisor had made the statement on 6th February 2024 during a consultative meeting with student bodies in Nagaland.

While acknowledging Dr Yhome’s initiative to enhance the education system in the State, SKK and AKM stated that the measure announced by him also “contradicts the spirit of inclusivity and equal opportunity that he aims to promote,”

The student bodies said that the announcement has caused outrage and distress within the communities and rued that it is “not only discriminatory but also undermines the principles of meritocracy”, emphasizing the importance of appointing teachers based on qualifications, skills, and merit rather than tribal affiliations.

Expressing concern for the future prospects of educated youth from both communities, the unions highlight the denial of employment opportunities in the teaching profession as a significant setback. They stress the need for fair and transparent recruitment processes to ensure the inclusion of qualified individuals from Sumi and Ao tribes.

Additionally, the press release raises questions about the government’s long-term planning for the education sector, particularly regarding the filling of positions vacated by retiring teachers from Sumi and Ao tribes.

The All Sumi Students’ Union and the Ao Students’ Conference urged the Dr Yhome to reconsider his statement and uphold principles of fairness and meritocracy in teacher recruitment processes. Both unions remain steadfast in their commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of Sumi and Ao communities in matters concerning education and beyond.