The Freshers Meet-cum-Farewell Function of the Manipuri Students Association, Betkuchi, Guwahati, was held today at the Maniram Dewan Trade Centre Auditorium, bringing together students, teachers and guests to reflect on education, identity, culture and the future of Manipuri society.
The function was presided over by Thangjam Leishemba, president of the Manipuri Students Association, Betkuchi, Guwahati, while Yengkhom Monojit, Assistant Professor of Political Science at RGU, attended the programme as chief guest.
The programme began on a solemn note with floral tributes paid in memory of late Devika, a former student of Royal Global University (RGU), who passed away recently. A minute’s silence was observed in remembrance of the departed soul. Teachers of RGU were also honoured during the programme.
Speaking at the function, Nongthombam Thoithoiba, president of the Nationalists’ Collective Manipur, drew attention to a range of challenges confronting Manipuri society, including the declining indigenous population, economic stagnation, weaknesses in the political and education systems, drug abuse and concerns over identity.
Reflecting on the changing world, he questioned whether students are adequately prepared for the age of artificial intelligence and expressed concern over the limited exposure and opportunities available to young people in Manipur.
He also criticised the lack of meaningful revision of the education curriculum, pointing out that syllabi have remained largely unchanged for decades, leaving students to learn through an outdated framework.
DESAM president Oinam Romesh, speaking as guest of honour, highlighted the mounting difficulties confronting students in Manipur and called upon Manipuri students studying in Guwahati to work harder and contribute towards safeguarding the future of the State.
He expressed concern over the implementation of the National Education Policy, alleging that its potential has not been properly utilised. He also criticised what he described as corruption and nepotism in Manipur University and termed the performance of Dhanamanjuri University disappointing.