Imphal, September 30: The fifth Enlighten Month observed by the Manipur Students' Federation (MSF) under the theme "Education and Better Society" since September 1 came to a close at LMS Law College today.

The closing function was attended by Pro Vice-Chancellor of Manipur University Prof H Nandakumar, MSF president Ch Rupachandra and Secretary of the Council of Higher Secondary Education Manipur Dr N Kunjabihari as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

Addressing the gathering, Prof H Nandakumar observed that there has been exodus of students to other States for higher studies after passing 10+2 for the last 10 years.

After completing different professional courses, most of the Manipuri students do not return to Manipur for lack of employment avenues in the State.

They either go abroad or work in different cities of India, he noted.

If the present trend continues, Manipur may face intellectual drought after 10 years, he cautioned while calling upon those responsible for framing education policies to take into account the disturbing trend so as to ward off such misfortune in not so distant future.

While the world has shrunk to a global village, knowledge is the most powerful tool and the most valued resource, remarked Nandakumar.

He stressed on the necessity for Manipuri students to go after the huge treasure of knowledge.

Asserting that empowerment of youths should begin with imparting knowledge to students, he noted that Manipuri students have great mental strength and intelligence.

He said that presence of 19 Manipuris in the Bangalore based Indian Institute of Science is a proof of the extraordinary calibre of the Manipuri students.

He, however, decried the lack of cordial relationship between students and teachers in Manipur.

Nandakumar emphasised on the paramountcy of restoring discipline and cordial relationship among students and teachers.

Asserting that a society cannot be prosperous until and unless the citizens are educated, MSF president Rupachandra highlighted the close link between being a developed society and education.

Observing that the education system being followed in the State is the same as that followed 50 years back, he insited on reevaluation of the existing education system.

Acknowledging that it is not an easy task to pursue quality education amidst the violent situation prevailing in the State, Rupachandra nonetheless called upon all to make best efforts towards quality education.

Many other speakers also delivered speeches on different topics related to quality education and betterment of society.

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