MP Indra Hang Subba calls for greater student participation in institutional affairs

GANGTOK,: Sikkim Government College (SGC), Namchi, organised a panel discussion with Lok Sabha Member of Parliament Indra Hang Subba on Tuesday on the theme “Challenges Faced by College Students in Higher Education and Student Leadership and Responsibility in Society.”

The discussion provided students with an opportunity to interact with their elected representative on issues related to higher education, institutional development, student leadership, employment, entrepreneurship and social responsibility, informs a press release.

The Lok Sabha MP spoke about the importance of critical thinking, adaptability and youth participation in the development of Sikkim.

He also stressed the need for constructive engagement between students and elected representatives.

He said the session was not only about sharing knowledge but also about listening to students’ concerns and learning from their experiences. Emphasising the importance of democratic participation, he encouraged students to raise issues concerning their institutions and society while focusing on constructive solutions and the broader development of the state.

During the discussion, students raised questions on higher education and institutional functioning.

Responding to a question regarding concerns raised by students of Sikkim Government Law College over campus safety, infrastructure and the need for urgent building repairs, Subba said such situations highlighted the importance of stronger communication between students and their representatives.

He said students have the democratic right to raise concerns and called for greater cooperation to identify the root causes of institutional problems. He also urged students to take the initiative in bringing their concerns before the appropriate representatives and authorities, stressing the need to avoid communication gaps between students and those representing them.

Asked about a single change he would make to improve students’ academic lives, Subba said he favoured greater autonomy for educational institutions. He said greater institutional freedom could allow teachers and academic bodies to respond to local needs, strengthen research and improve academic efficiency. At the same time, he noted that greater autonomy would also bring greater responsibility for institutions.

Sharing lessons from his own college experience, Subba identified adaptability as one of the most important qualities for students in the present era.

Recollecting the technological changes, he had witnessed since childhood, he said the pace of technological development and competition had increased significantly. He encouraged students to remain patient, continue learning and adapt to changing circumstances.

The second part of the programme provided an open platform for students to raise questions. Discussions covered issues including peer pressure, unemployment and entrepreneurship, youth responsibility, organic products in Sikkim, consumer awareness, affordability and the challenges faced by small and local businesses.

Responding to the questions, Subba shared his views and encouraged students to approach contemporary challenges with awareness, adaptability and a sense of responsibility.

The panel discussion concluded with the presentation of tokens of appreciation to the distinguished guests by SGC Namchi principal Prof. Deepak Tiwari, the release mentions.