DNSU mediates resolution as Holy Cross HSS agrees to alternatives for students amid parents’ protest over skill-based courses.
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DIMAPUR — The dispute between parents and the management of Holy Cross Higher Secondary School (HCHSS) Dimapur over newly introduced skill-based learning programmes was resolved on Friday after a meeting facilitated by the Dimapur Naga Students Union (DNSU), with the school agreeing to make alternative arrangements for students not wishing to enrol.
The issue arose after some parents staged a protest on Thursday against the introduction of two skill-based learning programmes for the academic year 2026, alleging that the courses were being imposed and had added financial burden on families.
According to the protesting parents, the school had enforced an Advanced Computer Course and an Abacus programme and added the fees to the existing school and computer fees. The fee was fixed at INR 1,300 per year for the abacus programme and INR 200 per month for the computer-enhanced programme.
Following the protest, the DNSU called a meeting with the parents and the school management at the school premises, after which the matter was settled.
Also read: Parents cry foul as Holy Cross HSS in Dimapur introduces compulsory skill programmes
Speaking to media persons, DNSU president Hinoto P Aomi said the issue was not mainly because of the introduction of the two skill-based programmes but due to a communication gap between parents and the school management.
“It was not even a serious issue and it could have been solved amicably,” he said.
Aomi said the introduction of the two courses was done with good intention by the school, but the concern among parents was that they were not part of the NBSE curriculum and could become an added financial burden for some families, although the course fees were “sensible.”
He also said the principal was open to views and suggestions and that the school has been undertaking various charitable works, adding that the situation arose due to miscommunication.
Commission for Education, Diocese of Kohima (CEDOK) secretary Fr. Jacob said the matter has been resolved in line with a February 5 circular issued by the principal of HCHSS. The circular requested parents who did not wish to enrol their wards in the Advanced Computer Course to submit a written application to the principal’s office so that suitable alternative arrangements could be made.
He said the purpose of the circular was not punitive but to facilitate alternative arrangements for students not opting for the course, and that misunderstanding over the circular led to the protest and subsequent meeting.