Aizawl, Dec 18: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on December 17 expressed concern over the poor performance of Mizo students in national-level competitive examinations, saying they lag behind Scheduled Tribe candidates from other states despite Mizoram having achieved full literacy.
Addressing the inauguration of a winter-cum-cultural festival at Serchhip Government College, the Chief Minister said the weak performance in central competitive examinations has resulted in several reserved government posts remaining vacant, depriving local youth of employment opportunities.
“Mizoram became the country’s first fully literate state in May, but this achievement has not translated into success in national-level examinations. We are far behind other Scheduled Tribe students, especially in central competitive exams,” Lalduhoma said.
He attributed the trend to a lack of motivation, determination and perseverance among present-day students, noting that eligible candidates often fail to qualify or do not come forward to avail themselves of available opportunities.
Highlighting steps to strengthen higher education, the Chief Minister said the state government would soon establish Mizoram State University, while academic sessions at the Mizoram Engineering College in Lunglei are expected to begin next year.
On employment, Lalduhoma said the current government has generated thousands of jobs through a transparent recruitment process strictly based on merit and qualifications. He added that farmers remain a priority for the government, with minimum support prices fixed for five cash crops.
Referring to economic initiatives, the Chief Minister said the government is promoting self-reliance by offering project-based, interest-free loans under the flagship ‘Bana Kaih’ handholding scheme.
He also said the administration continues to intensify its drive against drug abuse and trafficking. Several youths rescued from addiction have been provided skill-based training to help them earn sustainable livelihoods, he added.
