Is studying abroad a total no?

By
Priya Chatterjee

Studying abroad has fascinated students since ages. The objective to achieve a different education as well experience a new lifestyle is a big pull. Though India is regarded as an education hub, the young minds are still charmed by the very idea of pursuing education abroad.

UK, USA and Australia being the most sought after destinations, each year more and more students are opting for these countries. Due to the recent incidents of violence on students the numbers look like dropping.

The 2010 reports suggest a large number of deaths of Indian students who fall a prey to this violence allegedly on account of racial discrimination.

It is said that in 2010 more than 160 students were murdered out of which 130 students were killed in Australia alone and 30 in Philippines. The recent incident of Anuj Bidve, a 23 year old micro-electronics postgraduate student at Lancaster University is alarming.

On 26th December, 2011 Anuj went to Manchester for a short break with his friends. After a short discussion with a white male he was shot at a point blank range. To worsen it even more, the parents came to know about this incident through Facebook. It was shameful as none of the authorities took the pain to inform them.

Kiaran Mark Stapleton, from Ordsall is believed to be the murderer and five arrests have been made so far, but investigations are still on.

Parents were hesitant to send their kids to study abroad after the spate of killings in Australia. And after the Anuj Bidve's murder the sentiment is further shaken.

Is studying abroad a total no for Indian students? Should we only look at studying in India?

There are endless opportunities in India, but if you wish to study abroad, it's very crucial to remember certain key points:
• Take safe routes while walking down the streets
• If you're staying out late then try to move in packs or groups
• Avoid confrontation, but do report matters to authorities
• Don't jot down bank PINS or other confidential information
• Be alert
• Keep copies of your passports, visa, I-94 and other important documents
• Keep in touch with Indian Embassy
• In case of Racial Discrimination please report to the local branch of the Equality and Human Rights Commission. A formal procedure will be followed.

The death of Indian students is very sad and nothing can replace that. Indulging in acts or reacting to situations will only make matters worse. Students must focus on their prime objective of completing their education.

Do share with us if you have suggestions on this matter. What would you expect the government to do?