Students of class 10 are seen appearing their online evaluation test, huddled at the Village Council Hall of Chisholimi village, while the juniors discuss, post exams on Sunday, June 7. (Morung Photo)
Amid online learning push due to COVID 19, accessibility a big challenge
Kanili Kiho
Chisholimi | June 7
The Village Council Hall of Chisholimi village was abuzz with activity today, an unusual sight on a Sunday. Huddled on the balcony of the one-storey building, high school students were seen appearing their online evaluation tests on June 7.
They could have appeared the exams from home, yet had a valid reason for gathering at the council hall - internet signal.
"This spot is where the network strength is fairly good," commented one of the students.
Phase 1 of the online students’ evaluation programme of the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) commenced for classes 8 to 10 & 12 from June 3.
With the nationwide lockdown of schools since March, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been a struggle for students in the rural areas catching up with online classes, and now, tests.
Located under Pughoboto subdivision of Zunheboto district, Chisholimi village, the third oldest among the Sümi villages, is struggling no less when it comes to connectivity, including communication and roads.
"We went to the fields yesterday and the day before in search of network," said Vinikali who is studying in Dimapur, only to add, "This spot is unpredictable too," referring to the village council hall.
Some students were unable to complete their tests for two days in a row.
These young students, mostly studying in Kohima and Dimapur opted to stay back there in the hope that schools would reopen soon. However, with further extension of the lockdown, they returned home during facilitation of inter-district movement for stranded citizens which began on May 7.
The first phase of online evaluation will conclude on June 10 for high school students and on June 12 for higher secondary levels. Meanwhile, Phase 2 of Tele/Radio education for classes 5, 6 & 7 has commenced from June 1 as per notification from Shanavas C, Principal Director, Directorate of School Education.
