Job aspirants in Odisha preparing to crack various competitive examinations are in a fix due to the closure of colleges, universities, technical education institutions, and coaching centers from January 10 till February 1, 2022.
Several aspirants claimed that they are unable to prepare for their examinations amid the pandemic-induced uncertainty. While some expect the examinations to be deferred again, many are waiting for the announcement of new dates.
Moreover, the uncertainty has led to financial distress and psychological stress for many aspirants.
As per reports, Staff Selection Commission and Sub-Ordinate Staff Selection Commission examinations, which are scheduled to be conducted in January, may get postponed.
Similarly, aspirants are also doubtful about the Railways and NTPC examinations to be conducted in February.
Moreover, applications will be invited from Odisha Civil Services and ASO aspirants this month. However, the examination dates may not be announced soon.
Students mostly belonging to the poor and lower-middle classes are struggling to prepare for the interviews by staying at hostels in Bhubaneswar for a long period of time. Not being able to cope with the financial burden, many of them are vacating the hostels and returning home out of desperation and frustration.
“We are under huge pressure because of the uncertainty around the competitive examinations. I don’t have the financial backing to stay in Bhubaneswar for a long period of time and prepare for the examinations. Apart from the age factor, the uncertainty around the forthcoming examinations has taken a huge mental toll on us,” said Rashmi Ranjan Nayak, a job aspirant.
Meanwhile, owners of the coaching centers have also expressed their dissatisfaction over the announcement for the closure of the institutions.
“Coaching centers in the State were allowed to open after a long time and we are presently going through a huge financial burden. Hence, the institutions should be allowed to function in adherence with strict Covid-19 guidelines,” said Jignyashu Kumar Panda, an owner of a coaching center.
(Edited by Pradeep Singh)