Editor,
Society often celebrates academic success and takes pride in producing educated and ambitious young people. However, behind marks, degrees, and career aspirations lies a silent crisis that many students face every day. Anxiety, stress, self-doubt, and the fear of failure have become common experiences among young people; yet these struggles rarely receive the attention they deserve.
Most students do not lack ambition or determination. They study hard with the hope of building a better future and making their parents proud. No young person wants to become a burden on their family. However, in the race for success, the emotional well-being of students is often overlooked. Unreasonable expectations, harsh criticism, and constant comparisons with others can gradually weaken a student’s confidence and self-esteem. Every individual is different. Some people discover their strengths early in life, while others need more time and guidance. Unfortunately, society often measures success in narrow terms, associating it only with high grades, prestigious careers, or financial stability. As a result, many students are pushed towards goals that may not reflect their interests or abilities. Instead of exploring their own potential, they often find themselves trying to live up to standards set by others.
The problem is particularly visible among students preparing for competitive examinations and those searching for employment after graduation. In Arunachal Pradesh and across the Northeast, many young people face the twin pressures of meeting family expectations and securing stable careers in an increasingly competitive environment. With the growing influence of social media, comparisons have become even more common. Seeing the achievements of friends and peers can create the impression that one is falling behind, even when that may not be the case.
Contrary to popular belief, most students are not lazy or unwilling to work hard. What often affect their motivation is the burden of unrealistic expectations and the fear of disappointing their loved ones. Even after completing school, graduation, or postgraduate studies, many young people enter a period of uncertainty regarding employment and their future. Such concerns can take a serious toll on their mental and emotional well-being. Perhaps what students fear most is not failure itself but the possibility of letting down their families. Many choose to keep their struggles to themselves because they are afraid of being misunderstood or judged. As a result, stress and anxiety are often suffered in silence.
Parents, teachers, and society as a whole must recognise that encouragement is far more effective than comparison. Success should not be measured solely by marks, degrees, or job titles. Emotional well-being deserves the same importance as academic achievement. Schools and colleges should create supportive environments where students feel comfortable seeking guidance and speaking openly about their concerns without fear of being judged.
Education is meant to empower young minds, not burden them with impossible expectations. If we truly wish to nurture capable and responsible individuals, we must first create a society that values empathy, understanding, and emotional well-being. After all, a student’s worth should never be determined by comparison, but by the unique potential they possess and the contributions they can make to society.
Niri Madap
