The Royal Civil Service Commission, RCSC has reduced the number of ex-country scholarship slots for Arts and Commerce students for 2023 and 2024 to only three. This is around an 87 per cent decrease from the number of slots announced in 2022. The decreasing number of scholarship slots did not sit well with the Art Students. The Arts students say they deserve exclusive scholarship slots.
The RCSC recently announced a total of 103 ex-country scholarships for the academic year 2024-2025. While 97 slots are for science students, only 3 are for Arts and Commerce Students, and another 3 are for students from all streams.
According to the RCSC, the three scholarship slots for Arts and Commerce students include a slot for Applied Economics and two slots for BA Economics.
According to some of the Arts Students BBS talked to, the slots do not guarantee scholarships to Art Students since the three slots are for both Arts and Commerce students.
They say this is an indication that Commerce Students are preferred over Arts Students.
Similar is the case with three additional slots which are applicable for all the students. The students say it is always the Science Students that are selected for the scholarships.
“It is demotivating since only 10 per cent of government scholarships are for arts students. Even in areas where art students should receive full opportunities, we are expected to compete with students from other streams. I find it confusing and controversial that the government accepts a large number of art students, yet we are given fewer opportunities,” says Chogyal Wangdi, a Class XII graduate.
“I find it concerning that the slots for Art and Commerce students are decreasing. I believe a well-rounded education system should offer students the opportunity to explore and excel in various disciplines. While science is undoubtedly important, it is crucial to recognize the value of arts and commerce. Therefore, I feel that both arts and commerce students should be given equal opportunities,” added Sonam Lhamo, another class XII graduate.
In 2023 as well, there were only three slots for Arts and Commerce students. However, in 2022, there were 23 slots reserved for arts and commerce students.
According to the RCSC, scholarship allocation depends on the country’s human resource requirement and the availability of courses within the country.
RCSC says they thoroughly evaluate the HR requisitions submitted by various government agencies and subsequently allocate the scholarships based on the availability of relevant courses and expertise within the country.
The commission also says the students should carefully select streams and courses to ensure that their chosen courses align with the needs of the country.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Sangay Chezom
