Holy Cross Higher Secondary School Dimapur shut in protest over allegations on skill-based programmes.
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DIMAPUR — Holy Cross Higher Secondary School (HCHSS), Dimapur, remained shut on Monday as a mark of silent protest against what it termed as “unfounded allegations” arising over the introduction of two skill-based learning programmes for the academic year 2026.
However, the scheduled board examinations at the designated examination centre were conducted as planned and remained unaffected.
Addressing media persons at the school premises, staff secretary Amongla YS Jamir said the school fraternity was deeply hurt by the incident, which she said had maligned the reputation of the institution that has been serving the community for the past 60 years.
Jamir reiterated that on November 19, 2025, the school had issued circular informing parents about the proposed introduction of the skill-based programmes in the upcoming academic session.
She added that a subsequent circular issued on February 5, 2026 clarified that the programmes were purely optional, following concerns raised by some parents regarding the financial burden.
Related: Parents cry foul as Holy Cross HSS in Dimapur introduces compulsory skill programmes
DNSU brokers truce over skill courses at Holy Cross Higher Secondary School
According to the school, parents who were unwilling to enrol their wards in the programmes were requested to submit an application mentioning the student’s name, class, section and reason for opting out, so that alternative arrangements could be made.
The annual fee for the abacus programme was fixed at INR 1,300, while the computer-enhanced programme was INR 200 per month, she informed.
Clarifying the decision-making process, Jamir said that such matters cannot be decided solely by the principal within a day or two, as the institution functions under a managing board. Any decision, she added, must be deliberated and approved by the board.
Expressing concern over the February 12 incident, she lamented that unrest was created in what she described as a peaceful educational institution.
She said the situation went viral on social media with what she termed as false allegations, thereby tarnishing the school’s 60 years of service.
“The baseless allegations have saddened the teaching staff. We are innocent victims of some of the protesting parents’ allegations,” she said.
She also questioned why the teachers were not consulted regarding their views or asked about the situation during the protest.
It may be recalled that following a protest by some parents on February 12 over the introduction of two skill-based learning programmes for the academic year 2026, a meeting between the parents and the school management was held on February 13. The meeting was facilitated by the Dimapur Naga Students’ Union, during which the school agreed to make alternative arrangements for students who do not wish to enrol in the programmes.
DNSU rejects staff claim, defends intervention
The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has questioned and rejected the claim made by certain staff of HCHSS describing the union’s intervention as inappropriate and unrelated.
In a press release, the union stated that it will continue to welcome aggrieved parents and students on issues faced within its jurisdiction, irrespective of whether the concerned institution approves or not.
“DNSU intervened in the recent matter solely to ascertain facts and act as a mediator so that the issue could be resolved amicably. The matter was settled peacefully through mutual understanding.
“Therefore, any attempt to escalate the situation after a resolution raises doubts about underlying intentions. While some concerns raised by parents were genuine, DNSU exercised restraint and worked responsibly to calm an already sensitive situation,” it stated.
The Union stated that institutions unwilling to cooperate with DNSU in the interest of fairness, accountability, and transparency only raise doubts about their intentions.
It explained that the issue was minor and could have been resolved internally, but DNSU stepped in in good faith after it entered the public domain to facilitate an amicable settlement, noting that the institution’s reputation had not been tarnished as the matter was already resolved.
The union further claimed that the situation escalated due to poor communication and rude behaviour by certain management members, including asking parents to take transfer certificates for raising concerns, and stressed that educators have a responsibility to patiently guide parents, as all ultimately seek a better academic future for their children.
The union stated that while it understood the need to issue clarifications to protect an institution’s image, it was inappropriate to question or undermine an organisation working for students’ interests.
It further said that all parties had mutually agreed to forgive and forget the misunderstandings and to keep the matter within the school to maintain harmony, and that reopening the issue went against that understanding.
The union further questioned the rationale behind the decision to temporarily close the institution following a matter that had already been resolved amicably.
“Such actions create unnecessary anxiety among students and parents, particularly during an important academic period. Decisions affecting the academic environment must always priorities student welfare and continuity of education, and therefore any measure that disrupts normal academic functioning should be carefully justified and communicated with clarity,” it added.