Gauhati University Faces Language Barrier Issue
During Varsity Week
March 4, 2024
The commencement of the much-anticipated Varsity Week at Gauhati University has been overshadowed by a recurring issue of inadequate information dissemination, leaving a significant portion of its diverse student body in the lurch. The crux of the problem lies in the Post Graduate Students' Union's decision to publish the program list exclusively in Assamese, disregarding the linguistic diversity of the student population.
Gauhati University, renowned for its diverse student body hailing from various parts of India and abroad, prides itself on being a melting pot of cultures and languages. However, the decision to circulate vital information pertaining to Varsity Week solely in Assamese has sparked concerns and dissatisfaction among non-Assamese speaking students, who find themselves unable to participate fully in the week-long festivities and events due to language barriers.
This is not the first instance of such an oversight. The previous year's Varsity Week faced similar criticisms, raising questions about the inclusivity and accessibility of university events. Despite feedback and appeals from the student community for bilingual (Assamese and English) communication, little seems to have changed in the university's approach to information dissemination.
The lack of English translations for event details not only hampers the spirit of inclusivity but also restricts non-Assamese speaking students' ability to engage with and enjoy the full range of activities planned for Varsity Week. Students have expressed their frustration, highlighting that as an educational institution of national repute, Gauhati University should ensure that all its communications are accessible to its entire student body, irrespective of their linguistic background.
Concerns have been voiced by students over the language used for the Varsity Week event listings, with a significant emphasis on the challenges faced by those who are not proficient in Assamese. "The first issue encountered was the event list being in Assamese, with only a few entries in English. For many students, Assamese is not their first language, making it problematic for a considerable number," one student revealed. Despite efforts to raise concerns in the Post Graduate Students' Union (PGSU) group, attention was not granted.
When the final Varsity Week list, entirely in Assamese, was shared, further inquiries were made regarding the availability of an English version. It was mentioned by a student that upon contacting a PGSU representative to ask if an English list existed, the response was negative. Further queries about the feasibility of producing an English version were dismissed with the explanation that the list had been in Assamese the previous year as well, and there was no time to create a new one in English.
Additionally, the president of the Dimasa Students' Union expressed dissatisfaction with the program list being published solely in Assamese, highlighting the communication barrier experienced. "As the president of the Dimasa Students' Union, the decision to publish the program list in Assamese was disheartening, as certain words were incomprehensible to us. We found ourselves constantly asking others for translations, seeking updates on the programs, which proved to be quite hectic," the student lamented.
In response to the growing discontent, calls have been made to the Post Graduate Students' Union and the university administration to address the issue promptly. Students are advocating for immediate measures to provide bilingual program lists and ensure that all future communications are inclusive, reflecting the university's diverse and multicultural ethos.
The administration has yet to respond to the students' concerns formally. As Varsity Week progresses, it remains to be seen how the university will tackle this challenge and what steps will be taken to prevent such oversights in the future, ensuring a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all its students.
Honoring Legacy, Inspiring Tomorrow : Varsity Week 2024 Kickoff at Gauhati University
March 3, 2024
Gauhati University commenced its much-awaited Varsity Week on March 3rd, 2024, with a inauguration ceremony. The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries including Pratap Jyoti Handique, the Vice Chancellor of Gauhati University, Dr. Hemanta Kumar Nath, Registrar of Gauhati University, Dr. Jagdish Sharma, Secretary of Classes at Gauhati University, and Dr. Ranjan Kumar Kakati, Director of Students Welfare, Sports, and Recreation.
A poignant moment of the ceremony was the presence of the parents of Sam Stafford, who tragically lost his life during the CAA movement. Their presence as special guests added a solemn touch to the proceedings. In a gesture of respect and remembrance, they were felicitated by the university community.
The ceremony reached its pinnacle when the university flag was hoisted, symbolizing the commencement of Varsity Week. Following this ceremonial act, Vice Chancellor Pratap Jyoti Handique delivered an inspiring speech, reflecting on the significance of the upcoming week for the university community. His words resonated with hope, unity, and the spirit of academic excellence that defines Gauhati University.
The inauguration ceremony set a promising tone for the festivities and events lined up throughout Varsity Week.
