The Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) has objected to the proposed pen-down strike announced by the All Nagaland School Teachers’ Association (ANSTA) from October 14 to 16, claiming that the strike is irrelevant to the cause of the student community. In this regard, it directed all educational institutions and teaching personnel within Eastern Nagaland not to observe or participate in the strike.
“After thorough deliberation, the ENSF finds this proposed agitation irrelevant to the cause of the student community and detrimental to the broader educational interest of the Eastern jurisdiction, where academic advancement remains a collective and urgent priority,” state the Federation In a statement issue on October 10.
Advocating against the disparities that have long crippled the education system in Eastern Nagaland, the Federation regretted that schools and teachers in particular “are being directed to close down due to the influence of certain individuals who appear to be exploiting the system”.
“These individuals backed by an organisation that seems well versed with governmental processes, have remain silent and inactive while the federation, since inception, has consistently fought against systematic discrimination in the education system. It may be recalled that the recent agitation initiated by the Federation in protest against the Rationalization Order issued by the Directorate of School Education (DoSE), which was deemed unjust, discriminatory, and unfavourable to the interests of Eastern teachers and students. Subsequently, the agitation was temporarily suspended following the Department’s decision to constitute a joint committee to review and work towards a fair, balanced, and rational framework. In light of this ongoing process, any form of strike at this juncture would only jeopardize the constructive engagement and divert attention from the core objectives of achieving educational justice and parity,” stated the ENSF.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
With the students preparing for their final examinations, the ENSF viewed that any closure of schools or suspension of teaching activities would inflict irreparable academic setbacks, affecting the morale and performance of students who are already striving under challenging conditions.
The Federation considered the proposed strike “untimely, unwise, and counterproductive to the collective goal of enhancing the educational landscape of Eastern Nagaland”.
It appealed to all the teachers under Eastern jurisdiction to ensure normal academic functioning by refraining from extending any cooperation to the proposed strike.
“ENSF stands resolute and uncompromising in its mission to safeguard the academic welfare of students and to work constructively with all stakeholders towards a just, equitable, and progressive educational environment. The Federation calls for unity, prudence, and responsible action to ensure that the flame of learning continues to burn bright across Eastern Nagaland,” asserted the Federation.
It also cautioned any teacher under the jurisdiction of the Federation not to defy the directive.
