Leh, Apr 1: Warning that continued decline in student admissions could threaten the very existence of higher education institutions in remote areas, Bhanu Prabha, Secretary, Higher Education, UT Ladakh, on Tuesday called upon the community to actively support local colleges and ensure sustained enrollment at Government Degree College Khaltsi.
Addressing an enrolment drive organised at the college, the Secretary underlined that significant public resources are invested in maintaining such institutions in geographically challenging regions. She cautioned that a persistent drop in student numbers could compel authorities to reconsider their continuation, urging parents to enrol their children locally rather than opting for institutions outside Ladakh.
The outreach programme, held in collaboration with the Village Education Committee, Ladakh Buddhist Association Sham Region and the Nambardar Goba Association, brought together parents, students, and community representatives from the Sham region. The initiative was aimed at strengthening awareness about higher education opportunities available within the region and addressing concerns around falling admissions.
Reinforcing her argument, the Secretary pointed to Ladakh’s long-standing academic tradition, noting that the region has produced doctors, engineers and scholars despite limited institutional access in earlier decades. She, however, expressed concern that increasing educational migration not only places financial pressure on families but may also expose students to unfamiliar social conditions, thereby underscoring the importance of accessible local education.
Earlier, Assistant Professor Stanzin Stamdin presented an overview of the college’s academic offerings and infrastructure, highlighting the introduction of the Science stream from the current academic session. He acknowledged that despite these developments, the institution continues to face challenges in attracting adequate student enrolment.
Community leaders participating in the programme echoed the need for collective responsibility. Representatives of the Nambardar Association and the Village Education Committee welcomed the government’s efforts to expand educational access in the region and stressed the importance of awareness at the grassroots level. They also noted recent initiatives by the Higher Education Department to upgrade schools into model institutions.
The Vice President of the LBA Women’s Wing, while addressing the gathering, emphasised the role of women in advancing education and society, urging families to make full use of opportunities available within their own region.
The event also featured the release of the college’s annual newsletter, Ser Gyi Mayon, and a felicitation ceremony for the visiting Secretary.
During her interaction with faculty members and students, the Secretary invited suggestions and feedback on institutional challenges, signalling a consultative approach towards strengthening the education sector in Ladakh.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Assistant Professor Wangchuk Dorjey, who acknowledged the participation of various stakeholders and reiterated that sustained community engagement would be essential to secure the future of higher education institutions in the region.
