“One Nation, One Student ID” program opposed by NSF

Dimapur: The Naga Students Federation (NSF) has reiterated its opposition to the implementation of the “One Nation, One Student ID” program in Nagaland.

The scheme is known as Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) in Nagaland.
They describe it as a “controversial move” aimed at establishing an education ecosystem registry called ‘EduLocker’.
In a formal representation to the Chief Secretary of the State, NSF President Medveri Ray and Education Secretary Temjentoshi emphasized that the introduction of APAAR poses “significant challenges and concerns” that would burden educational institutions. They pose an “unprecedented threat” to students’ rights and privacy.
While the government has touted the initiative as a means to seamlessly track academic progress and achievement.
The NSF has raised several significant concerns, including data security and administrative burden.
According to the NSF, obtaining parental consent for APAAR enrollment is insufficient to protect students’ rights and privacy.
The federation said it was skeptical of the government’s assurance that data would only be shared with relevant government agencies, suggesting it did not eliminate the possibility of misuse or data breaches.
NSF is also concerned that the proposed centralized District Information for Education portal could be vulnerable to cyber-attacks, putting students’ personal information at risk.
In light of these concerns, NSF is calling for a comprehensive reevaluation of the APAAR initiative prior to any implementation by the Department of Education.
NSF urges the state government and the education department to conduct wider and comprehensive consultations with all stakeholders, including parents, students and educational institutions.
They emphasize the importance of prioritizing data security and promptly addressing management challenges through a comprehensive dialogue with all relevant parties.
The Federation believes that a consultative and collaborative approach is vital to maintain the welfare of students and the integrity of the education system in Nagaland.
Furthermore, they demand that the responsible department should temporarily suspend the current APAAR exercise pending wider consultation.