In a recent development, it has been announced by officials that schools in Manipur, which had previously been affected by violence, will resume normal classes starting from July 1 instead of the earlier announced date of June 21.
The Director of Education (School), L. Nandakumar Singh, issued a notification stating that the resumption of regular classes in all schools in Manipur has been deferred until July 1 or until further notice.
The notification further directed all zonal education officials under the Department of Education to inform the relevant parties and take necessary actions accordingly.
Initially, the department had declared that normal classes would recommence from June 21. However, considering the prevailing law and order situation, classes for the remaining grade levels, including colleges, will be gradually resumed in a phased manner after July 1.
Manipur is home to 4,617 schools, out of which approximately 100 were being utilized as relief camps for displaced individuals and as accommodation for central forces.
To ensure minimal disruption to students, the state government has been making alternative arrangements for both the relief camp inhabitants and security forces, according to an official from the Education Department.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh had previously revealed plans to adjust the curfew timings, allowing a gradual return to normal activities, including the reopening of schools at the earliest opportunity.
Meanwhile, with thousands of students currently displaced and seeking refuge in relief camps, the Thoubal district education department has taken the decision to provide education to these students within the district’s relief shelters.
Officials have estimated that around 6,000 students from various grade levels have been displaced due to the ethnic violence that erupted in the state on May 3.
Education Minister Bashanta Singh had earlier stated that the department is taking measures to ensure the well-being of the affected students.
He said, “Study materials such as notebooks, pens, pencils, sports equipment, and uniforms will be provided to the displaced students.” Singh added that volunteer teachers will be assigned to the relief camps to organize coaching classes for the students.
Furthermore, Singh mentioned that students who have been displaced and are currently studying in grades 9 to 12 will be permitted to transfer to schools of their choice, provided there are available seats. In cases where the selected school has no vacancies, arrangements will be made in nearby schools. Additionally, students residing in remote areas will be provided with devices like tablets for distance learning.
