One for the future: Gen Alpha rise to demand accountability, better infrastructure

The summer of student discontent is giving way to autumn, as young generations, from Gen Z to Gen Alpha, demand accountability and improved infrastructure in their educational systems. Starting with allegations of corruption in NEET exams, students across India have taken to the streets to highlight their grievances, particularly focusing on inadequate facilities such as no fans, toilets, teachers, and proper buildings.

In Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, students have made their voices heard despite challenging circumstances. A notable victory came last week when a primary school in Jaipur's Rampura Kanwarpura village, previously held in dilapidated conditions, received government approval for a new building. The CJP, a student-led protest group, emphasized that while the school issue has been addressed, their campaign for better conditions in government schools will continue.

In Ajmer, Rajasthan, female students staged a protest against their principal for alleged molestation, leading to the registration of a case. Meanwhile, hearing- and speech-impaired students at a Jaipur school protested over poor infrastructure and lack of basic facilities, resulting in the removal of the school's principal.

In Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Gen Alpha and Gen Z students, along with teachers, protested against dilapidated buildings and the closure of numerous government schools. Over 25,000 schools reportedly shut down across the state, prompting the students to intensify their "Save Schools" movement and threaten an indefinite sit-in protest.

Similar protests have occurred across Uttar Pradesh, with students boycotting classes and blocking major traffic intersections to raise awareness about issues like caste discrimination and tree felling on school premises. Despite some temporary truces, students remain undeterred, continuing their protests and demanding better conditions for their education.