JSU demands setting up of MPSC exam centre in Jaintia Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 2, 2025

The Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) on Wednesday demanded the state government to set up a Meghalaya Public Services Commission (MPSC) examination centre in Jaintia Hills region. 

Submitting a memorandum to deputy chief minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, JSU general secretary Neilkee Mukhim said, “We strongly urge the govt and the Meghalaya Public Service Commission to establish an MPSC examination centre in Jaintia Hills without further delay. This will alleviate the difficulties faced by students, particularly those from financially weaker sections, and ensure equal access to examination opportunities.”

He said the absence of an MPSC examination centre in Jaintia Hills has created significant challenges for students from our region

Students from remote areas of both East and West Jaintia Hills District must travel to Shillong for MPSC examinations, which is both time-consuming and costly. Heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, often leads to delays, preventing students from reaching the examination centre on time. Those who arrive late are denied entry, resulting in unnecessary stress and lost opportunities

Mukhim also said that many students in Jaintia Hills Areas come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The expenses associated with traveling to Shillong including transport, food, and accommodation-pose a significant financial strain. The additional risk of missing exams due to travel-related delays further exacerbates this burden.

He further stated that despite a substantial number of applicants from Jaintia Hills, the absence of a local examination centre puts them at a severe disadvantage compared to students from other districts who have easier access to exam centres.

The JSU leader also informed that the union has repeatedly raised this issue with the Education Minister and relevant authorities. However, despite our continued efforts, no concrete steps have been taken to establish an examination centre in our direct

“Although an MPSC Cell office exists in Jowai, its impact is minimal due to the lack of an examination centre. Students still have to travel to Shillong, rendering the office ineffective in serving its intended purpose,”he stated.

Meanwhile, Mukhim said that since the formation of Meghalaya in 1972, the people of Jaintia Hills have faced numerous challenges in accessing education and employment. 

“The establishment of an examination centre in our region would help bridge this gaр, ensuring that students from Jaintia Hills have equal opportunities to compete on a level playing field. We urge the government and MPSC to take immediate action on this matter for the welfare and growth of our people,”he added further.