No help to first generation students at universities

STUDENTS who are the first in their families to enter universities find little support from the administration. EVERYONE focuses on them only during the time of the student elections.

The UGC fact-finding committee addressed several problems in the grievance-redressal mechanisms of universities. As per its report, the lack of grievance redressal mechanisms at the University of Hyderabad led to “academic demoralisation and social isolation” on campus.

The report identified a “trust deficit” among students, which heightened the feeling of deprivation and discrimination experienced by those from backward areas.

The findings of the committee were made public a year ago. Universities across the state are yet to develop grievance redressal mechanisms which will be especially helpful to first-generation learners.

Mr Sreesanth (name changed), a first-generation learner, says, “It was a matter of great pride for my family when I joined the university to do an MA, but it does get difficult for me with respect to language. The environment is also a cultural shock. Not everyone is blessed with good friends and understanding faculty. We want our voices to be heard.”

First-generation students are often left to fend for themselves.

Prof. G. Haragopal, an educational expert, said, “First-generation learners have witnessed discrimination and poverty first-hand. They do not wish to experience the same at an educational institution. They often suffer from a lack of confidence because of the language barrier. “They need encouragement from the beginning to ensure that they don’t have mental problems later.”

He said that first-generation learners who deserve encouragement often disappear into the crowd of students after admission.

Student leaders admit that first-generation learners are not accounted for until the time of elections.