Manipur students have received strong encouragement from Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, who praised their decision to avoid agitation during a challenging period in the state and urged them to prioritise education and constructive dialogue. Speaking at an educational programme in Imphal on November 7, the Chief Minister stressed that peaceful discussions, rather than protests and confrontations, should be the preferred way of resolving differences.
The Chief Minister made the remarks while inaugurating an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Enabled Career Intelligence Hub at Tamphasana Girls’ Higher Secondary School. He appreciated the maturity and restraint shown by the students over the past seven to eight months, encouraging them to remain committed to their academic goals and future careers.
Manipur Students Urged to Prioritise Education
During the inauguration, Khemchand Singh specifically appreciated the students of Tamphasana Girls’ Higher Secondary School for not resorting to agitation despite the difficult circumstances prevailing in Manipur.
He described their decision as an example of maturity and responsibility, particularly at a time when the state continues to face several challenges.
The Chief Minister appealed to students and members of the public to avoid turning every crisis or disagreement into an agitation. Instead, he encouraged people to adopt dialogue and peaceful engagement to address their concerns.
He emphasised that students should not allow political or social disturbances to derail their education. According to him, maintaining academic focus is essential for building a secure future and contributing positively to society.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of honesty and humanity, describing these as two essential qualities that young people should carry throughout their lives.
AI Career Hub Opens New Opportunities for Students
The inauguration of the AI-Enabled Career Intelligence Hub was another major highlight of the programme.
Established under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS), the facility aims to provide technology-driven career guidance, personalised counselling and information about emerging professional opportunities.
The initiative is reportedly the first of its kind in the Northeast and marks an effort to introduce artificial intelligence into Manipur’s education and career guidance system.
The facility is expected to help students understand their individual abilities, identify suitable career pathways and make informed decisions about their professional futures.
Speaking at the event, Khemchand Singh highlighted how artificial intelligence is transforming different industries and professions. He said access to modern technology and career-related information would help young people prepare for changing employment opportunities.
The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to Rajya Sabha MP Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi, the Education Department and the school’s faculty members for their contributions towards establishing the facility.
Classes XI and XII Crucial for Career Development
Khemchand Singh also drew attention to the importance of student life, particularly the higher secondary years, in determining future academic and professional directions.
He identified Classes XI and XII as particularly important stages when students begin making decisions that can influence their careers.
While acknowledging that everyone may not achieve all their ambitions, he encouraged young people to remain grounded and uphold honesty and humanity in their personal and professional lives.
His message placed equal importance on academic achievement and character development, suggesting that education should prepare students not only for employment but also for responsible participation in society.
The career intelligence facility is expected to support this process by giving students better access to guidance and information when making important educational choices.
CM Reiterates Call for Dialogue to Restore Peace
The Chief Minister’s remarks also come against the backdrop of continuing challenges in Manipur, where social and political disagreements have repeatedly affected normal activities.
His appeal for dialogue reflects his broader position that agitations, bandhs and blockades can create difficulties for ordinary people, particularly students, daily wage earners and small business owners.
During the State-Level Teachers’ Day celebration on September 5, Khemchand Singh had also praised students of Tamphasana Girls’ Higher Secondary School and C.C. Higher Secondary School for maintaining restraint during a controversy surrounding the census.
He recalled interacting with student leaders and appreciated their decision not to participate in a bandh called over the issue. He maintained that disruptions affect the education sector and the wider economy, stressing that negotiations remain essential for resolving disagreements.
The Chief Minister had also observed that there were signs of peace gradually returning to the state, although several challenges remained.
Students Encouraged to Explore Science and Innovation
Apart from inaugurating the career guidance facility, the Chief Minister also formally opened the State-Level 32nd National Children’s Science Congress (NCSC) 2026–27.
The programme was organised by the Manipur Upliftment Centre in collaboration with Samagra Shiksha, Manipur, under the theme, “Understanding Ecosystem for Health and Well-being”.
During the event, Khemchand Singh inspected science exhibits and interacted with participating students. He showed interest in their projects and encouraged them to develop scientific curiosity, creativity and innovation.
A total of 39 student group leaders from schools across 12 districts were shortlisted to participate in the state-level Congress.
The programme brought together education officials, teachers, students and other dignitaries, including Rajya Sabha MP Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi.
The Chief Minister’s message highlighted the importance of protecting educational opportunities during difficult times. By encouraging peaceful dialogue, academic commitment and technological awareness, the government aims to strengthen the environment in which young people can pursue their ambitions. For Manipur, keeping education at the centre of the state’s recovery remains an important priority.