A one-day youth convention titled “Unity Amidst Diversity: Reimagining Manipur’s Collective Future” was held today at the VC’s Court Hall, Manipur University. The event was organised by the Manipur University Students’ Union (2024–2025) with the objective of fostering dialogue on communal harmony, inclusive development, and youth-led social transformation in Manipur.
The convention was inaugurated by Prof. Naorem Lokendra Singh, Vice Chancellor of Manipur University, who attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Special Guests included Sheikh Noorul Hassan, MLA of Kshetrigao Assembly Constituency, and Lourembam Rameshwor Meetei, MLA of Keirao Assembly Constituency.
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. W. Nabakumar Singh, former Dean of the School of Human and Environmental Sciences, who underscored the role of youth in nurturing peace, unity, and responsible civic engagement. He called for sustained efforts toward building a shared and inclusive future for the state.
The convention was presided over by Prof. Ch. Ibohal Singh, Dean of Students’ Welfare, Manipur University, while N. Suraj Singh, President of the Manipur University Students’ Union, coordinated the overall programme.
A technical session moderated by retired IAS officer K. Radakanta Singh featured insightful deliberations by a panel of distinguished scholars and experts. Dr. K. Indrakumar Singh, Head of the Department of Political Science at GP Women’s College, spoke on the intersection of religion, culture, economy, and politics in fostering inclusive growth. Dr. Arambam Noni, Associate Professor at DMU, addressed the importance of bridging ethnic divides for vibrant coexistence. Dr. Puni Mao, a retired Indian Foreign Service officer, shared perspectives on building a united front through creative conflict resolution.
Dr. Kh. Siile Anthony, faculty at the Dr Ambedkar Centre of Excellence, Manipur University, focused on empowering youth for peace, integrity, and holistic development. Islamic scholar and founder of IRI Manipur, Mufti Azeemuddin Shaikh, highlighted faith as a bridge for communal harmony and inclusive growth. Dr. Gangmumei Kamei, Assistant Professor at Manipur University, examined the psychosocial dimensions of ethnic identity and conflict, stressing the need for empathy and resilience in society.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Golmei Roshan, Social and Cultural Secretary of the Students’ Union. The convention served as a platform for meaningful engagement among students, scholars, and policymakers and reaffirmed the commitment to unity, peace, and inclusive progress in Manipur.