Education Minister Thounaojam Basantakumar Singh called on government school teachers to approach their profession, regarded as one of the noblest, with dedication and commitment. His remarks were made during a one-day media sensitization program on School Education held at the Manipur Press Club, organized by the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union as part of its golden jubilee celebration under the aegis of the Department of Education (S).
As the chief guest of the event, Minister Basantakumar Singh acknowledged the existing loopholes that have, in recent years, eroded trust in government schools. However, he emphasized that the current government is making tireless efforts to revitalize educational institutions in the state.
Addressing the challenges faced by the education sector, Basantakumar highlighted the acute shortage of teachers and infrastructure, noting that many teachers are reluctant to accept postings in remote areas. He emphasized the government’s awareness of the critical relationship between teachers’ welfare and students’ academic success, revealing plans to implement a new recruitment policy. Under this policy, newly recruited teachers will be required to teach in schools within their district or neighboring districts.
Basantakumar also pointed out that while some teachers perform their duties with a spirit of sacrifice, a significant number view the profession merely as a source of income. Starting next year, the government will introduce measures to thoroughly assess teachers’ dedication during recruitment to ensure a more committed workforce.
In his address, the minister underscored the importance of the effective functioning of all four pillars of democracy, urging legislators to focus on creating, not breaking, laws. Reflecting on Manipur’s 2,000-year history, Basantakumar reiterated that no force can disintegrate the state, and called for peaceful coexistence among the 34 ethnic tribes that inhabit Manipur.
