Call for National Student Work Policy in India to Safeguard Working Students and Enhance Academic Balance

India is witnessing a growing trend of students engaging in part-time work, both on and off campus, to support their education and gain practical experience. However, the absence of a comprehensive national policy to regulate and safeguard student employment raises concerns about exploitation, academic performance, and overall well-being.

The Rising Need for Regulation

With the increasing cost of education and living expenses, many students are compelled to seek employment opportunities. While such experiences can offer valuable skills and financial support, the lack of standardized guidelines means students often face challenges like irregular working hours, inadequate compensation, and tasks that may not align with their academic pursuits.

International Practices as a Benchmark

Countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia have established frameworks that define permissible working hours for students, ensure fair wages, and protect against exploitation. These policies balance the dual objectives of allowing students to gain work experience while prioritizing their academic commitments.

Recommendations for India

To address these challenges, experts suggest:

• Establishing Clear Guidelines: Defining the number of hours students can work weekly, especially during academic sessions.

• Ensuring Fair Compensation: Setting minimum wage standards for student workers to prevent underpayment.

• Aligning Work with Academic Goals: Encouraging employment opportunities that complement students' fields of study.

• Monitoring and Enforcement: Creating mechanisms to oversee student employment practices and address grievances.

Conclusion

As India continues to evolve its educational landscape, integrating a national student work policy is imperative. Such a policy would not only protect students from potential exploitation but also enhance their academic and professional trajectories by ensuring that work experiences are both meaningful and supportive of their educational goals.