IMPHAL: In response to the prevailing situation in Manipur, the State Education Department has taken a significant step to address the concerns of students regarding admissions to government and government-aided colleges for the academic year 2023-24. According to a notification issued by H Gyan Prakash, Commissioner of Higher and Technical Education, Government of Manipur, on Wednesday, provisional admission is now permitted without the requirement of a transfer certificate, migration certificate, or any other documents that are currently unavailable with the students.
The decision comes in the wake of the ongoing communal violence that has plagued the state, leading to the loss of over 150 lives and displacing around 60,000 individuals, including students, who have sought refuge in different relief camps.
The All Tribal Students Union, Manipur (ATSUM), representing the Nagas and the Kukis, has been at the forefront of addressing the grievances faced by the student community. They made an earnest appeal to the State Administration, authorities concerned, and educational institutions through a press release issued by the Department of Information and Publicity on July 17.
The key demands put forward by ATSUM were aimed at facilitating the smooth continuation of education for the affected students amidst the ongoing crisis. One of the major requests was a one-time exemption of admission fees, recognizing the financial difficulties faced by many families in the region. Additionally, ATSUM sought the transfer of students' names from one school to another in the Board of Secondary Education Manipur (BOSEM) and Council of Higher Secondary Education Manipur (COHSEM). They also called for a simplified process for transferring students between the State board and Central board and vice-versa.
Acknowledging the urgency of the situation and the challenges faced by students, the Education Department took immediate action by allowing provisional admissions without the need for specific documents. However, the students are expected to produce and submit the necessary documents to their respective colleges within a stipulated time, as determined by the colleges.
In light of the escalating violence and its devastating impact on innocent lives, ATSUM made an impassioned appeal to all parties involved to put an end to the madness of violence and instead foster an environment of understanding and compassion.
The Education Department's decision to address the immediate needs of students reflects the administration's commitment to ensure that education remains accessible during these challenging times. By providing provisional admissions, the government aims to alleviate the stress and uncertainty faced by students who have been affected by the violence.
As the situation unfolds, it is hoped that concerted efforts from all stakeholders will lead to the restoration of peace and stability in Manipur, allowing humanity to prevail and paving the way for a brighter and more harmonious future for its people.
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