Imphal, May 13 2010: Shortage of fuel following the protracted economic blockade along National Highways-39 and 53 has also affected the functioning of private schools in the State with teachers and students finding it difficult to attend schools.

Addressing a press conference in this connection at its office here today, vice president of All Manipur Recognised Private Schools' Welfare Association, Gojendro Thaoroijam informed that shortage of petrol and diesel in the State following the prolonged economic blockade have adversely affected the movement of around 7,000 teachers working in various private schools and the attendance of the students have declined as the van services have been stopped.

In such a situation, many of the private schools have not been functioning properly.

Taking serious note of the matter, the Association met the Minister of Consumers' Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and requested for ensuring adequate fuel supply in the interest of the teachers and the schools.

However, the Minister maintained that all of us should bear with the inconveniences as the fuel stock has ran out, Gojendro said.

He lamented that everyone has been talking of quality education in Manipur but nobody seems to care and give priority on education.

How we are supposed to bring about quality education without ensuring proper education of the students ?, he questioned.

Condemning the brutal killing of founder of Pakchao Memorial English School Laishram Biren (43) on the night of Monday last, the Association has also demanded an explanation from all concerned in this regard.