Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: The All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) hosted a one-day media sensitiazation workshop on school education, organized under the aegis of the Department of Education (S), Government of Manipur. The one-day media sensitization workshop on school education is a part of AMWJU’s golden jubilee celebrations, took place at the Loktak Hall of the Manipur Press Club in Imphal.
Speaking at the media sensitization workshop Education Minister Th. Basanta Kumar emphasized the crucial role of the four pillars of democracy—legislature, executive, judiciary, and media. He underscored that each pillar must operate independently to ensure a stable and effective democratic system.
Minister BasantaKumar particularly highlighted the media’s role as the fourth pillar, stressing its importance in safeguarding democracy and fostering balanced discourse. He commended the media fraternity in Manipur for its proactive and responsible contributions to societal development.
The Education Minister Th. Basanta further stressed that when all four pillars function smoothly, democracy is secure. As legislators, their duty is not to break laws but to create them. He urged everyone to keep in mind the broader importance of these democratic pillars. Reflecting on Manipur’s long history of over 2,000 years, he noted that unity is key to its enduring strength.
On education, Minister Th. Basanta shared that the state assembly had recently passed an anti-cheating bill for examinations, now an official act. When fully implemented within the next five years, this legislation will benefit future generations. He also pointed out that education falls under the Concurrent List in India’s Constitution, meaning both the central and state governments play a role in shaping it.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, he emphasized, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” He added that education not only builds knowledge but also fosters confidence and promotes peace.
H. Gyan Prakash expressed that the relief and rehabilitation of students at the relief camps, which nearly twelve thousand students in the relief camp. A nodal officer has been assigned to each relief camp. The nodal officer collected the students’ data and set up a control room at the directorate. Students at the relief camps are admitted to nearby schools free of charge and are provided with textbooks, uniforms, and identity cards, he said.
During the technical session discussed on the topic, over view of school education in Manipur and its achievement by Director School education, innovations which are not taken up anywhere expect Manipur. National education policy 2020 in the context of school education in Manipur. Relief and rehabilitation of students at the relief camps.
The function attended Th BasantaKumar Education Minister, Bijoy Kakchingtabam, President All Manipur Working Journalists Union, H Gyan Prakash, IAS, Commissioner Education, L Nandakumar, Director Education (S) and Khogendra Khomdram, President Editors Guild Manipur as Chief Guest, President and Guest of Honour respectively.
