Institutions promising job guarantee
I have been offering free career counselling to students and parents since 2005. Many students and parents enquire about educational institutions that claim to offer a job guarantee. If any institution claims to provide a 100% job placement guarantee after completing a course, such a claim should not be blindly trusted. This is because employment depends on multiple factors such as the student's communication skills, technical competence, self-confidence, and performance during the interview. A certificate or promise from an institution alone cannot guarantee a job.
Before enrolling in any course, students must thoroughly verify the authenticity of the institute, the recognition and value of the degree, the management, and the credibility of its accreditations. Students should not make decisions solely based on attractive advertisements. Building a student’s future is a serious matter, and everyone must take responsibility to make informed and careful decisions.
I offer free career counselling every Saturday from 6 pm to 9 pm over phone (09435188630).
Dr. Buljit Buragohain
Assam Don Bosco University,
Airport Road, Azara
Blessing in disguise?
The Pahalgam mayhem, though one of the most tragic terrorist attacks on India by Pakistan-sponsored militants, also proved to be a blessing in disguise. That horrific incident has unveiled the mask of the enemies inside the nation who had been devouring the nation from inside under political patronage. The end results of such unholy patronage would be very fatal to the nation in the long run. The alarming number of such enemies, which are increasing day by day, has already raised a security concern for the nation. It simply proves that we are living in the mouth of an active volcano. The opposition, mainly the Congress, TMC, SP and the leftists, are fully responsible for this development.
History tells us about such a breed of enemies, like Mirjaffar, Jaichand, and Badan, who eventually led to the downfall of famous dynasties like Mewar, Ahom, and Bengal. Sabotage is their main aim. They are more dangerous than the external enemies who can be identified. So let us deal with them in a practical and radical way. JAI HIND.
Lanu Dutt Chowdhury,
Guwahati.
Timely action
The news article 'Minister Bora suspends liquor license near GU', published in your esteemed daily on May 27, has drawn our attention. The bold and decisive action by the concerned Excise Minister to suspend liquor licenses and approval of a liquor outlet near the prestigious Guwahati University, following the widespread public outcry and media reports, deserves wide appreciation from all sections of society, especially the student community. There may be legal validity in issuing a licence, but the sensitivity surrounding the matter cannot be overlooked. A liquor outlet near the highest seat of learning is beyond one's thought. Educational institutions serve as the breeding ground for a nation's future leaders, thinkers and change-makers. However, an alarming issue that has already plagued these institutions is the prevalence of alcoholism among students with a devastating impact on their lives.
It is now a matter of grave concern in India. The concerned authorities should have a thought about it. Always the thought of profit-earning without reviewing the regulations governing the location of liquor establishments, especially in the vicinity of schools and universities, can not only disrupt the educational environment and pose safety risks for students, but it will also shatter their dreams, which cannot be acceptable in a civilised society. When there is a lack of positive action, there are always negative impacts of negative action which never enable the young generation to achieve their aspirations.
It is, therefore, imperative to create a safer and healthy environment in and around the educational institutions for the well-being and future of our students, who are pillars of a nation. The most appropriate step taken by the minister has saved the future of the ambitious and young educated people of the state from the impending danger of alcoholism.
Iqbal Saikia,
Guwahati.
Education a pillar of a nation
Education is the pillar of a nation's progress and prosperity. It shapes individuals into responsible, skilled, and informed citizens. Through education, societies gain the knowledge and values needed for growth, innovation, and peace. It empowers people to break the cycle of poverty and make informed decisions. A strong education system leads to a strong economy, better healthcare, and stable government. Nations that prioritise education build a brighter future for the next generation. In essence, education is not just a foundation; it is a pillar of the nation.
Sofikul Islam
Goalpara, Assam
Covid again
It is a matter of concern for all that the Covid cases are increasing, and all necessary steps are to be taken so that it may not take the dangerous shape as the country has seen previously, and in this regard, staying informed and alert is key to avoiding panic.
There has been a sudden spike in Covid cases in the past two or three days. The Indian Council of Medical Research has urged people battling diseases and others with low immunity to be cautious while also advising citizens not to panic. Plans for vaccines are also reportedly underway.
Concerns in the media about new strains of Covid-19 developing could be both realistic and alarmist. However, it's important to get things right. Yes, it is true that virus evolution is normal. At the same time, surveillance also matters. We need to remind ourselves that vulnerable groups are still at risk. But there is another side to the story. Some headlines emphasise case spikes of new variants without explaining that severe illness and hospitalisations may remain few, especially among vaccinated populations. Sensational wordings – like "super variant", "nightmare Covid strains" and the like – can misrepresent the actual threat level. Besides, treating all variants as equally dangerous can dilute the important nuances involved. For instance, this might overlook how immunity from prior infection or vaccines reduces severity.
As of Tuesday, 753 people are suffering from the respiratory disease, while 305 people have reported recovery. The maximum number of cases was reported in Kerala (430 total cases and 335 active cases), followed by Maharashtra (210 total and 154 active) and Delhi (104 total and 99 active).
The surge in the coronavirus cases is led by its omicron variant’s new sub-variants — NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 — which are under the observation of the World Health Organisation (WHO). Omicron had already swept the country during the fourth Covid-19 wave in 2022. Though symptoms of the current subvariants are reported to be mild and subtle, experts advised people to maintain hygiene and not to panic.
Nevertheless, the government is spreading awareness among people about the need to follow the Covid-appropriate behaviours like wearing masks, social distancing, maintaining hygiene, eating healthy and following an active physical regime. People should also note that they could remain safe if they don’t touch their mouth, eyes and nose. Several memes have already begun to circulate on social media, encapsulating this message for the public. Climate could play a role as well. Some scientists say India's epidemic may have a seasonal pattern opposite to that seen in Europe and the United States, where winter drives people indoors, where the virus spreads easily. In India, the summer heat may lead people to retreat to the fans and air-conditioners of their homes. The public should follow the guidelines issued by the government from time to time.
Yash pal ralhan
(ralhan.yashpal@gmail.com)