manipur-guv-launches-school-on-wheels-for-displaced-students-in-manipur

In a pioneering effort, Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey launched the 'School on Wheels' initiative on Sunday, aiming to extend educational support to students residing in relief camps on the aftermath of ethnic violence, according to a statement from the Raj Bhavan.

 

At the inauguration ceremony held at the Bal Vidya Mandir Complex, Governor Uikey emphasised the significance of this innovative program, highlighting that the school bus, outfitted with a library, smart TV, computer, and sports equipment, will traverse relief camps accompanied by a dedicated teacher.

 

Taking to X, the Manipur Raj Bhavan maintained, "Governor Miss @AnusuiyaUikey inaugurated the "School on Wheels" initiative at Bal Vidya Mandir Complex in Imphal, aiming to support students in relief camps. The school bus, equipped with a library, computers, and sports items, will visit different camps accompanied by a teacher."

Governor Miss @AnusuiyaUikey inaugurated the "School on Wheels" initiative at Bal Vidya Mandir Complex in Imphal, aiming to support students in relief camps. The school bus, equipped with a library, computers, and sports items, will visit different camps accompanied by a teacher. pic.twitter.com/CNdX71ZnuJ

— RAJ BHAVAN MANIPUR (@RajBhavManipur) May 5, 2024

The 'School on Wheels' initiative endeavors to bridge the educational gap by providing essential resources and instruction to students in various relief camps across the state.

 

"The incidents which started on May 3 last year affected thousands of people especially students of the state, the governor said, adding "The school on wheels scheme will reach out to students and impart them with necessary education." 

 

She stressed the pivotal role of the 'School on Wheels' initiative in ensuring continued access to education for affected students.

 

Expressing empathy for the displaced individuals, Governor Uikey disclosed her directives to the Chief Minister and Chief Secretary to expedite measures for the permanent resettlement of those residing in relief camps.

 

The initiative is spearheaded by the Vida Bharati Shiksha Vikas Samiti, which prioritises the welfare of children in relief camps to mitigate any disruptions to their education, Governor Uikey remarked.

 

Presently, approximately 18,000 students are accommodated across 480 relief camps, underscoring the pressing need for sustained educational outreach amid ongoing challenges.

 

Last year's ethnic clashes, sparked during a 'Tribal Solidarity March' on May 3rd, resulted in the loss of lives, displacement of thousands, and profound socio-political ramifications. 

 

Meiteis, constituting a majority in Manipur, primarily inhabit the Imphal Valley, while Nagas and Kukis, accounting for over 40% of the population, predominantly reside in the hill districts.

 

Governor Uikey reiterated her commitment to addressing the plight of the displaced individuals, instructing state authorities to expedite efforts towards their permanent rehabilitation.

 

Detailing the pivotal role of the Vidya Bharati Shiksha Vikas Samiti, Governor Uikey highlighted its longstanding commitment to educational advancement since its inception in 1979. 

 

The Samiti's extensive educational network spans 15 schools across six districts of Manipur, alongside 36 Sanskar Kendras providing primary education.

 

The Samiti extends its educational outreach to displaced students in districts including Moreh, Churachandpur, Bishnupur, Imphal East, Imphal West, Kangpokpi, and Senapati, offering free education to 150 students amidst their challenging circumstances.

 

The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of Chief Secretary Dr. Vineet Joshi, Dr. Pawankumar Tiwari, Sanghthan Mantri Vidya Bharati Purvottar Kshetra, Yumnam Khogen Singh, President of Vidya Bharati Shikasha Vikash Samiti Manipur, Vice-Chancellors of CAU and MUC, alongside educators, parents, and students.