Introduction
Student politics has always been a vibrant and dynamic aspect of university life, engaging students in various forms of activism and decision-making. However, when it comes to engineering students in India, the landscape is notably different. A significant number of these students choose to stay away from student politics, and this article delves into the reasons behind this trend.
Why are Engineering Colleges Reluctant to Involve Themselves in Student Politics?
The lack of involvement of engineering students and colleges in student politics is a multifaceted issue rooted in numerous factors. Prestigious private institutions like Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Somaiya Vidyavihar (SOA), Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Ranchi (IEST), and International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) tend to maintain a strict stance on student politics. On the other hand, state government colleges are more prone to indulging in political activities. However, there is a notable exception: Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian School of Mines (ISM Dhanbad), IIITs, and institutions in the Institute of Rural Management (Institute of Rural Management Anand or IRMA) domain play a more balanced and active role in student politics.
Why Most Engineering Students Stay Away from Student Politics?
Engineering students face a plethora of challenges that often deter them from participating in student politics. One of the primary reasons is the absence of a robust student politics union within their colleges. Institutions such as Jadavpur University have well-established and active student politics unions, but this is not a universal characteristic among engineering colleges. Additionally, engineering students are often burdened by a heavy academic workload, including assignments, class tests, and practical requirements. The rigorous curriculum demands a substantial amount of studying and hands-on practice, making it difficult for students to allocate additional time to political activities.
Impact of Academic Pressures on Student Politics Participation
The demanding nature of engineering courses can be overwhelming. Everyday schedules are filled with practical sessions, laboratory work, and problem-solving activities, leaving little room for extracurricular activities such as student politics. Moreover, higher grades and better employment opportunities are crucial for engineering students. Participating in student politics might be perceived as a distraction from these academic and career goals. Many students feel that their time is better spent on their studies and extracurriculars that directly benefit their future prospects.
Conclusion
While student politics can provide a platform for engagement, advocacy, and social change, the reality for engineering students in India is quite different. The absence of a supportive student politics environment and the pressures of the demanding engineering curriculum often push students towards prioritizing their academic pursuits. However, it is essential for educational institutions to create more inclusive and balanced environments that encourage students to explore these opportunities without compromising on their academic success.
By understanding the challenges and pressures faced by engineering students, educational institutions and policymakers can work towards creating a more supportive and conducive environment for the active participation of students in student politics.