Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 09, 2009:
The call of indefinite class boycott issued by a student body while every one is talking of making educational institutions a free zone has been denounced on the occasion of 4th Private School Day which was observed at MDU hall, Yaiskul Police lane here today.
All those who spoke at the observance function organised under the aegis of All Manipur Recognised Private School Welfare Association observed that such indefinite class boycott calls at a time when the annual examinations are due to be held are objectionable and should be withdrawn.
Among those who spoke, vice president of the Association Doren Khangamba lamented that private schools in Manipur have become the target of extortion and one of the causes for degradation of school education.
He expressed apprehension that if this trend continues, then there would be no hope for development and well-being in Manipuri society.
He also noted that it is high time for the Association to call a general body meeting to discuss the issue of extortion and take a definite decision on not entertaining any monetary demands from private schools from the academic session of 2010 onwards.
Ex-president of the Association Th Shyamakhaba pointed out that smooth conduct of classes in the schools have been greatly affected in the current academic session due to various disturbances and so care should be taken to recover the loss.
Chief advisor of the Association N Tombi said in view of the changes likely to bringforth in the education policy of the Govt of India 2010, it would advisable to start analysing how it could affect the private schools in the State.
With recognition of the important role that private schools play in education, the Government of Manipur has mooted presentation of award, he noted.
Furthermore, he observed that it is time to think over and discuss together how far boycott of classes would encourage the students to take part in the public agitation.
At the occasion, meritorious students who secured highest marks in the matriculation and higher secondary examinations were also felicitated with gifts.