Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh attended the inaugural function of a three-day workshop on “Reforms in School Education of Manipur: An Approach to Implementation, Challenges and Opportunities of NEP-2020” today at the City Convention Centre, Imphal. The workshop was organised by Vidya Bharati Shiksha Vikash Samiti, Manipur.
Speaking at the event, Khemchand Singh quoted Nelson Mandela on the importance of education, stating that education is one of the most powerful tools to change the world.
He said the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 outlines the responsibilities of the education sector to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. The Chief Minister stressed that teaching in a child’s mother tongue as the medium of instruction up to Class V would help students learn more effectively and at a faster pace. He expressed hope that the workshop would help achieve the objectives of NEP 2020.
Khemchand Singh also noted that due to the current law and order situation in the State, summer vacation had been reduced from three weeks to one week. He said normal functioning of educational institutions and government offices was disrupted for nearly a month after the Tronglaobi incident. To make up for lost time, Saturdays were declared working days for all government departments. He added that Saturdays would be restored as holidays once pending work is completed.
On the successful implementation of NEP 2020, the Chief Minister said everyone shares equal responsibility and the duty should not be left to the government alone. He said NEP 2020 can be implemented successfully only when the government, employees, and people work together with strong determination.
Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, Chief Secretary, Manipur, said India aims to become a fully developed nation by the 100th year of its Independence, guided by the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He described NEP 2020 as a key driver in this journey, with teachers and education stakeholders playing a major role in shaping the nation’s future.
Prof. Ganga Prasad Prasain, President of Vidya Bharati Purvottar Kshetra, said that from Class VI onwards, students should be introduced to skill development and vocational courses along with regular academic subjects. He said the aim is to give students practical skills and improve their chances of self-employment.
The function was attended by Sapam Nishikant Singh, MLA of Keishamthong; Prof. W. Chandbabu Singh, Vice Chancellor of Dhanamanjuri University; Prof. P. Gunindro, Vice Chancellor of Manipur University of Culture; Shri Ningthoujam Geoffrey, Commissioner for Higher and Technical Education; along with professors and teachers.
