sentinelgroup@gmail.com
Fee concession for self-financed courses
I would like to draw the attention of the Education Department of Assam to an important issue regarding the recent implementation of the Samarth Portal for admission to undergraduate courses in the state. The introduction of the Samarth Portal is indeed a commendable step towards streamlining the admission process. However, there are certain gaps that are causing concern among students, particularly those from economically weaker sections.
Many universities in Assam now offer self-financed integrated BA and MA programmes, which are not covered under government aid and involve substantial fees. Unfortunately, there are no fee concessions for SC, ST, BPL, or ration card holder students in these courses. This creates a huge burden on poor and meritorious students, who are unable to afford such expensive programmes despite their interest and eligibility.
Additionally, the Samarth Portal does not clearly mention whether a course is government-funded or self-financed. As a result, students often apply without knowing the financial implications, only to discover later that they are unable to afford the fees.
I request the Education Department of Assam to kindly take necessary steps to clearly label courses as "Free" or "Self-Financed" on the Samarth Portal. It is also important to ensure that students belonging to SC, ST, OBC, EWS, BPL, and ration card holders receive fee concessions even in self-financed programmes. Furthermore, financial support or scholarships for poor students pursuing such courses should be ensured to promote equal opportunity. This small but meaningful step will go a long way in ensuring equity and transparency in higher education access across the state.
Partha Pratim Mazumder
Kazipara , Nalbari
Application of AI
The present era can truly be called the age of artificial intelligence (AI). AI is now making deep inroads into every aspect of our daily lives- from education to healthcare and from business to industry. In this context, it has become essential for individuals from all walks of life-students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and educators-to understand the appropriate and ethical use of AI. There is a common misconception that one must pursue certificate courses, diplomas, or higher education to gain knowledge of AI. However, the reality is that there are now numerous accessible platforms available to learn the fundamentals and practical applications of AI-such as online courses, webinars, e-learning platforms, and various training programmes. Importantly, the knowledge of AI is not limited to technologists alone. It has become an essential skill for students from arts, commerce, and science streams, as well as for working professionals and entrepreneurs. The more people understand and responsibly apply AI, the more it can simplify life, save time, and enhance productivity. Therefore, I sincerely urge the media to give greater importance to spreading awareness about this transformative technology so that society at large can stay informed and empowered.
Dr. Buljit Buragohain
Assam Don Bosco University,
Azara, Guwahati
The Sentinel E-Paper
I feel pain to inform you that being a dedicated reader of The Sentinel for years, I am presently not able to read it online for more than one month. The online version is not opening, and the error message shows up. It's been a long time now. I am attaching a screenshot of the error. Staying outside Assam Online (E-Paper) is the only way to read your respected daily.
Also, I tried to inform the matter to your office and called in the number (0) 9874598745, but unfortunately, no response or action was initiated from their end.
Sometimes, they just ignored the call. Please take necessary action at the earliest, as a large chunk of the population residing in and outside Assam depends upon The Sentinel e-paper. I hope you will take necessary actions so that your dedicated old readers can get their e-papers like before.
C. Sanyal
(Pune, Maharashtra)