Maram commemorates dialect recognition
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 11 2015 :
In commemoration of the recognition of Maram dialect as a medium of teaching from classes I to VIII, textbooks written in Maram dialect were released today at a function held at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Maram under the aegis of Maram Karalimei Swijoikang (MKS) .
The textbooks were released by Senapati DC Jacintha Lazarus.
COHSEM Chairman C Arthur, Senapati ADC CEO designate Rang Peter, former Deputy Speaker K Raina and Maram Union president K Raisong were seated on the dais.
Speaking at the commemorative function which was attended by a large number of people including church leaders and students, Jacintha Lazarus congratulated MKS as well as the Maram people for their relentless efforts.
Mother tongue is the best medium for imparting education to kids.
"If we are ashamed of speaking our own languages/dialects, our civilization and identity are doomed", she said.
C Arthur said that 13 languages/dialects have been recognised by COHSEM but Maram dialect has not been recognised so far.
To get the Maram dialect recognised, MKS may see the Director, Education Department (Language, Planning and Implementation).
MKS president Pungdi Celestine said that BOSEM offered Alternative English or Elementary Manipuri to Maram students studying between Classes I and IX during the previous academic session (2014-15) .
However, MKS appealed to the State Government to re-consider BOSEM's offer in the interest of Maram community who constitutes a linguistic minority in the State.
Subsequently, Education (S) Department recognised Maram as a medium of teaching from classes I to IX in April this year together with Anal, Maring and Simte dialects, said Pungdi.
He also conveyed gratitude to Education Minister M Okendro and local MLA Francis Ngajokpa who is also RD&PR Minister for the State Government's favourable action.
He said that most of the materials for the textbooks released today were collected by MKS, Maram Literature Society, Maram Union and other experts.