Established in 1978 with the noble aim of carrying the light of education to the marginalized sections of society, particularly in the Fatasil Ambari area of the city, R.G.Baruah College still stands committed to providing an inclusive environment—the ideal upon which it was founded. At the beginning of its journey, the college catered largely to underprivileged students, most of whom were first-generation learners. Even today the majority of students belong to the educationally and financially disadvantaged groups. Moreover, a vast majority of its students also belong to the scheduled tribes, castes and other communities that make up the social fabric of Assam. Be that as it may, the college, in keeping with its vision, has not only tirelessly endeavoured to facilitate the academic pursuits of its students but also attempted to instil in them the feeling of harmony, tolerance and inclusivity.
Over the years the college has been able to carve a niche for itself among the higher educational institutions of Guwahati. The attention that the students belonging to educationally disadvantaged groupsneed is provided with utmost care and sensitivity by the teachers of the institution. The commitment and hard work of the faculty have paid off as students with modest academic careers or poor educational backgrounds have shown marked improvement in their results at the undergraduate level. Their expectations are no longer just to pass examinations but to excel in them. So much so that in recent times almost all the departments have been able to produce students securing first class. They have gone on to realize their potential by working in various government and private organizations. Many of them have also excelled in the professional world by virtue of their entrepreneurial spirit.
The institution has dedicated cells for SC/ST, OBC, minority and girl students for their welfare. These cells help the students belonging to these categories in matters relating to scholarships and other government schemes. The college complies with the latest government directives on the reservation of seats for these categories. In the last five years, an average of …. of the seats are filled against reserved quotas. The male-female ratio has been ….. on average. The issues and concerns of the female students are regularly addressed by the Internal Complaints Committee and the Women Studies Cell by way of organising awareness and counselling programmes. The safety and security of female students are regularly ensured. Moreover, the college has been organising self-defence training camps for girls since 2018. The needs of the Divyangjan students are looked after with utmost concern and sensitivity by the institution. Ramps have been provided at strategic points for ease of access.
The cultural programmes and other annual functions which showcase the songs and dances of the various ethnic communities ensure that the students become aware of the cultures and traditions of their fellow students and thereby inculcate a feeling of harmony and brotherhood. What has been heartening to notice is the participation of students belonging to one community in the songs and dances of another. Many events that commemorate the social, cultural and linguistic diversity of the region are organised throughout the year. Besides, students are also familiarized with various social issues by conducting regular awareness programmes and activities in and outside the campus. The cultivation of moral and social values among its students is another core area of concern in the college. Value-oriented programmes are periodically held for the benefit of students. Students from diverse backgrounds get representation in units like the NCC, NSS and the students’ union. They demonstrate social commitment and moral uprightness not just within the campus but also beyond it by participating in various events and spreading the message of unity and togetherness in the neighbouring Harijan colony and destitute home among others.
The role played by the faculty of the college in giving shape to the lives and careers of underprivileged students cannot be stressed enough. With great passion and patience, the teachers have been successful in drawing out the latent talents and abilities of the students. Slow learners are not made to feel left out and every effort is made for their uplift. The teachers make themselves accessible to students at all times, helping them with extra classes whenever needed. Financially weaker students have also been helped by providing them with books and other learning resources.
The idea of inclusivity is also reflected in the workforce of the institution. The male-female ratio amongst the teaching and non-teaching staff is a healthy one. Almost all the communities of Assam get representation in the staff of the institution. No discrimination on the basis of gender, cultural, ethnic or linguistic background is allowed in addressing the needs of the students. Despite its varied background, the staff shows exemplary commitment towards the fulfilment of the institution’s aspirations and ambitions.
Thus, students of the disadvantaged sections of society with weak educational and financial backgrounds who are admitted in large numbers in the college are not made to feel insecure or inferior to anyone else. Inclusiveness has always been in the foreground in the institution’s plans for the future. The students have also responded in a positive manner by inculcating the values of hard work, sincerity and fellow feeling. The outcomes are conspicuous for everyone to see. What sets R.G.Baruah College apart from most educational institutions is its feeling of camaraderie among the students, teachers, staff and administration—irrespective of caste, creed or economic status—all on board together to take the institution to even greater heights.
