Imphal: Educational institutions in Manipur reopened on November 29 after a 10-day closure due to violence triggered by the killing of six hostages from Jiribam by suspected Kuki militants. Students across the state returned to classrooms, determined to resume their studies despite the ongoing conflict.
The prolonged closure has deeply affected the student community, with many voicing concerns about falling behind academically compared to peers in other states. The disruptions have highlighted the educational challenges faced by students amid the unrest.
Khulem Memtonbi Devi, Principal of Churachand Higher Secondary School, shared that her school, with 1,446 students from classes 9 to 12, is conducting extra classes to make up for lost time. “The conflict between Kukis and Meiteis has disrupted students’ studies, but our faculty is dedicated to supporting them and ensuring their future remains secure despite the challenges,” she said.
The Directorate of Education issued an order for the resumption of classes across all government, government-aided, private, and central schools in affected districts. Similarly, the Higher and Technical Education Department announced that colleges and state universities would reopen starting November 29.
The closures began on November 16 following the tragic discovery of six hostages’ bodies. They had been kidnapped on November 11 during an attack on Borobekra police station in Jiribam, where a relief camp was also located. The incident, which involved a gunfight between CRPF personnel and Kuki militants, claimed the lives of 11 militants, two Meitei civilians, and later, the six hostages.
As normalcy slowly returns, educational institutions are focusing on bridging the academic gaps caused by the turmoil, providing a glimmer of hope for the affected students.
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