IT News
Imphal, Dec 24:
Education Minister Thounaojam Basantakumar has issued a stern warning of legal action against employees of the Board of Secondary Education Manipur (BoSEM) participating in a pen-down strike opposing the appointment of Akham Joykumar Singh as Chairman of BoSEM.
Speaking at a press conference held at the DIPR Conference Hall, the minister clarified that the appointment of Akham Joykumar Singh followed all established procedures. He urged those alleging violations to submit evidence to the government for review. “If any guidelines were violated in the appointment process, the government will initiate appropriate action,” he assured.
Process for appointment of DMU Vice-Chancellor underway: Education Minister
Education Minister Thounaojam Basantakumar announced that the process for appointing a regular Vice-Chancellor (VC) for Dhanamanjuri University (DMU) is actively underway.
Addressing the media, the minister attributed the delay in the appointment to the enforcement of the Election Model Code of Conduct and the subsequent delay in the nomination of a University Grants Commission (UGC) member required for the selection process.
He elaborated that the DMU Syndicate had constituted a three-member selection committee, which includes eminent academics such as Professor Elangbam Bijoy and retired Lieutenant General Konsam Himalaya, to oversee the process.
The minister further revealed that 11 applications have been received for the position, adding that the government is committed to appointing a highly qualified candidate to lead the university.
He assured that the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor would be finalized soon, ensuring the smooth functioning and growth of DMU.
The minister detailed the appointment process, stating that Akham Joykumar Singh was selected through government order No. EDU-S-1/16/2024-EDN(S)-EDN(S) dated December 6, 2024, after inviting eligible candidates via notification No. 39/4/2014-SE(S)/BoSEM dated October 24, 2024. The selection considered the relative merit, qualifications, and experience of five applicants, in line with relevant rules that do not mandate an exam or interview. He added that the maximum age limit for appointment as Chairman on deputation is 65 years or the date of retirement, as per notification No. DAB-i/8/2022-EDN(S)-EDN(S) dated March 1, 2023, approved by the State Cabinet.
Minister Basantakumar emphasized the government’s readiness to investigate any wrongdoing at BoSEM, including by the Chairman, if provided with credible evidence. He appealed to BoSEM employees to end the strike, citing the critical need to ensure smooth printing, distribution, and sale of textbooks, as well as the timely conduct of matriculation exams, in the interest of students.
