By – Konthoujam (K) Premchandra
Education is a critical pillar of human security. When the education sector is neglected or underdeveloped, it can lead to widespread insecurity socially, economically, politically, and even physically. Human security goes beyond traditional notions of national security. It includes safety from chronic threats such as hunger, disease, and repression and protection from sudden disruptions in daily life.
Grievances and challenges related to education can significantly destabilise a country by fostering division, increasing poverty, and triggering political unrest. When the education system fails to provide equitable opportunities or meet the needs of diverse communities, especially displaced students, it can result in long-term social, economic, and political insecurities for a state or nation.
The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur, which erupted on May 3, 2023, has left a trail of devastation. Thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge in temporary relief camps and prefabricated shelters. While the impact of the conflict has been widespread, the toll on internally displaced students is particularly alarming, casting uncertainty over their futures.
These students face significant challenges. Living in overcrowded camps with limited study space seriously affects their ability to focus. The lack of resources adds to their mental burden, making it difficult for them to prioritise education and overall well-being.
Before the conflict, the COVID-19 pandemic had already severely disrupted the education system in Manipur. Just as students were beginning to recover, the fresh wave of violence compounded the crisis, resulting in substantial learning losses, increased trauma, and heightened stress levels. This has deeply affected their mental health and academic performance.
Parents of displaced children have also suffered greatly. The loss of livelihoods has made it difficult for them to support their children’s education. With basic survival taking priority, many parents are unable to provide emotional support, guidance, or stability, further impacting the mental health and academic struggles of their children.
One of the most severe consequences of the conflict has been a decline in enrollment rates, especially in colleges and universities. Many displaced students have been forced to drop out due to financial constraints, unable to afford tuition or other academic expenses.
While many recognise the essential role of education in building a strong society — as the saying goes, “An educated populace is essential for a thriving society; without it, the seeds of failure are sown” — the reality for displaced students in the valley areas of Manipur tells a different story. Many have had to abandon their academic pursuits due to economic hardship.
In response, the Directorate of University and Higher Education under the Government of Manipur issued a notice on July 24, 2023, addressed to the principals of all government and government-aided colleges in the state. The notice stated that students affected by the ongoing law and order situation could benefit from the “Chief Minister’s College Students Rehabilitation Scheme” (CMCSRS), 2023. This was applicable to students seeking admission to the 1st, 3rd, and 5thsemesters of undergraduate programs in 51 colleges across Manipur for the academic session 2023–24.
However, the effectiveness of this scheme at the ground level remains questionable. Based on available knowledge and reports:
1. Transfer to a new college (as per student request) was implemented to some extent.
2. Free admission for the 2023–24 session was primarily implemented, though reports emerged of some colleges still charging minimal fees from IDP students.
3. All eligible students did not receive the one-time rehabilitation grant of ¹ 10,000 for books, stationery, uniforms, and other miscellaneous expenses. For example, many students from Dhanamanjuri University reportedly did not receive this grant.
4. The promised free smartphones under the CMCMESS scheme were never distributed, remaining only on paper.
5. Other provisions like free sanitary pads and sports equipment for female students under the UHEHFS were also not implemented.
In the long term, displaced populations may find it difficult to access higher education, limiting their opportunities to rebuild their lives.
One of the key gaps that must be addressed is the disconnect between short-term educational relief and long-term knowledge-building. Without sustainable support, displaced students remain vulnerable and marginalised, with restricted prospects for the future.
According to the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement of the United Nations.
Section III – Principles relating to protection during Displacement.
Principle 23:
1. Every human being has the right to education.
2. To give effect to this right for internally displaced persons, the authorities concerned shall ensure that such persons, in particular displaced children, receive education which shall be free and compulsory at the primary level. Education should respect their cultural identity, language and religion.
3. Special efforts should be made to ensure women and girls’ full and equal participation in educational programmes.
4. Education and training facilities shall be made available to internally displaced persons, particularly adolescents and women, whether or not living in camps, as soon as conditions permit.
(The writer is a Internally Displaced Student of National Security Studies, M.U.)
Educational Challenges faced by IDPs due to Ethnic Conflict in Manipur
272