‘No need of special consideration for just me’: Vellayani Agriculture College student responds to Minister’s offer

Thamarassery: Arjun, a BSc Agriculture student who discontinued his studies at the College of Agriculture Vellayani after posting a distressing story on social media about the steep fee hike, has now responded to the Agriculture Minister and the University’s assurance that he can resume his course. Arjun stated that he does not wish to receive special consideration and will return only if the previous fee structure is reinstated for all students.

Minister P Prasad had directed the University authorities to contact Arjun, who had taken a Transfer Certificate (TC) and left the college, and ensure his readmission. The College of Agriculture Vellayani administration, after assuring that his concerns would be addressed, sent an e-mail to Arjun clarifying their position. Arjun then issued a statement in response.

He said that his return to the college would depend on certain conditions being met. “They should not give special consideration to me just because this has become an issue. I spoke up for other students too. If the same fee is applicable to everyone, I will return. Otherwise, no,” Arjun clarified.

“It is only fair that everyone’s fee be reduced to last year’s level. I may or may not be eligible for a scholarship, but there are many students studying there. Those whose annual family income exceeds ₹1 lakh do not receive grants. It is extremely difficult for ordinary families to pay such a large amount in the first year of college. I paid my first instalment of fees by pledging my mother’s amulet. I joined after seeing that the fee was ₹15,000 at the time of application but later found out that it had risen to nearly ₹50,000. Many others wanted to leave like I did but stayed back due to circumstances,” he said.

Dean’s letter offers support for further studies

The authorities at the College of Agriculture Vellayani have assured their support to Arjun, who left his course midway. The Dean, Dr Jacob John, sent an e-mail to Arjun on Monday outlining the measures available to assist him.

The Dean mentioned that discussions held in his chamber highlighted that Arjun could avail of financial aid through the state government’s e-grants scheme and a special scholarship offered by the vice-chancellor of the agricultural university. The letter also noted that Arjun had been informed about this new merit-cum-means scholarship during admission. In addition, the college’s alumni association has promised to support Arjun financially throughout his four-year undergraduate programme.

The Dean further stated that the Parents-Teachers Association of the College of Agriculture Vellayani would also extend financial assistance if required.

Minister promises to review fee structure

Agriculture Minister P Prasad told reporters that the government would consider revising the fee structure of the agricultural colleges if students found it unreasonable.

He said that he had spoken to university officials about the case of student Arjun. The Minister added that the student has been instructed to be readmitted to the college. The Minister also said that the college should take the initiative to get Arjun back to the college.