Hopes for a new future
- Imphal Times Editorial :: December 09 2017 -

Great revolutions seldom start with a bang.

They evolved and came into being according to the needs and necessities to salvage or turn around a particular situation.

It involves various radical changes and often is seen as a turning point- a step towards the untrodden path, a new approach and thoughts. An element of calculated risk is inherent in such revolutions.

The recent proactive steps taken up by the Education Minister to turn around the declining state of education in the state, especially those of the State –run educational institutions can be viewed as nothing short of a revolution in the spheres of education in the State.

Different experimental changes have been mooted, some implemented, and despite objections and disturbances from certain quarters for the unorthodox approach in the search for an answer to the ailing system of education, the bold and earnest nature of the steps taken, even to the point of risking his popularity and position is an altogether uncommon and commendable display of courage of conviction.

But the tag of “do or die” to the steps being taken up, as reported in various dailies reeks of desperation and a last ditch effort on the part of the concerned authorities to salvage the last remaining shreds of pride and position.

The new initiatives, in order for it to show the desired results, should be pursued relentlessly.

While the media may seem unjustly critical of the various development works being planned and carried out in the State, the stand may be attributed to the dismal show of commitment and lack of follow-up in almost all the public projects and developmental works carried out so far.

The onus to prove everyone wrong lies squarely on the shoulders of those empowered to carry out these projects.

It is common knowledge that the education scene in the state is being increasingly dominated by the private players and institutions, in spite of the high tuition and admission fees collected by them which shows the level of confidence and demand they command.

Meanwhile, the scene within the state run educational institutions is in stark contrast to the ones being witnessed amongst the private educational institutions.

A lackadaisical attitude, lack of enthusiasm and an almost negligible student participation and attendance marks these schools and institutions.

The very thought of starting a massive turnaround of these maladies is indeed a daunting task.

To draw up the courage to actually implement these changes is indeed a mark of unstinted sacrifice and a willingness to take risks for a higher purpose.

The rest of those in the helm of power need to wake up to the commendable deeds of such extraordinary leaders, and to try and better them.

It remains to be seen as to the dedication and tenacity with which the leaders pursue these steps.

Instilling a sense of achievement and encouraging incentives coupled with a system of rewards could pave the way for a changed attitude amongst the overpaid and underperforming government appointed teachers of the state.

A concerted effort from everyone involved in the system needs to be made in order for the new initiatives to effect any real and sustained change in the State.

It would seem too early to warrant a guess about the outcome of the whole exercise, but the initial picture is a rosy one. Hope the good run continues.