HSE 2026 toppers shine amid turmoil: Entrepreneur, Judge, civil servant dreams emerge
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 20 2026:
The Council of Higher Secondary Education Manipur (COHSEM) declared the Higher Secondary Examination 2026 results this afternoon, spotlighting exceptional talent from the science, commerce, and arts streams despite ongoing disruptions in the State.
In science, Takhellambam Kalpana of Comet School and Yohen Longjam of Comprehensive Concept School jointly topped with 490 marks each.
Commerce saw Thoihenba Thongam of CC Higher Secondary School lead with 454 marks, while arts crowned Sarangthem Ayingbi Chanu of Enlighten Knowledge Higher Secondary School with 470 marks.
These young achievers shared bold career visions and candid critiques of Manipur's volatile learning environment, marked by unrest since May 2023, internet blackouts, and frequent school closures.
Thoihenba Thongam Eyes Entrepreneurship
Hailing from a humble family in Singjamei Makha Khongnang Pheidekpi, Thoihenba is the son of craftsman Thongam Gojendro Singh, and homemaker Thongam Ongbi Ibeyaima Devi.
Growing up amid financial constraints, Thoihenba balanced household responsibilities with rigorous self-study.
He scored a total of 454 marks, showing consistent performance across subjects with 95 in Economics, 92 in MIL, 91 in Business Studies, 90 in English, and 86 in Accountancy.
Breaking from the usual preference for Government jobs, Thoihenba aims to become an entrepreneur.
He wants to be self-reliant and generate employment instead of following a path shaped by parental or societal pressure.
He plans to pursue a B.Com at Delhi University for his higher studies.
While crediting his parents and teachers, he flagged the impact of unrest since May 3, 2023."Physical classes could not be held regularly, internet shutdowns hampered online learning, and the atmosphere of fear made it hard to focus", he said, urging the Government to restore a safe study environment.
"The youth are the future, but that future is at risk when students cannot study in safety", he added.
Thoihenba shared a message for his peers: "Every individual has a different style of learning.
One should not simply imitate others but find the method that works best for them and study with dedication" .
Sarangthem Ayingbi Sets Sights on Judiciary
Securing an impressive 470 marks, Sarangthem Ayingbi said she plans to study law and join the judiciary to ensure justice for the common people.
A resident of Langthabal Lep Makha Leikai, Ayingbi is the eldest daughter of Sarangthem Labango and Sarangthem (O) Romabati.
She was raised by her uncle Mutum Subhashchandra and aunt Mutum (O) Ibemnungshi.
Ayingbi said Manipur's current socio-political situation influenced her career choice.
"The atmosphere of injustice, crime, and violence against women deeply affected me", she said.
"Female representation in the judiciary is still very low.
If men continue to dominate the field, I wonder if we can bring the balance our society needs.
This sparked my desire to become a judge", she added.
She credited EK Higher Secondary School and her guardians for her success.
"We never doubted her potential, but seeing her top the exams is pure joy.
We will support her journey to become a judge with everything we have", said Subhashchandra.
As Ayingbi prepares for an LLB programme, she stands as a symbol of determination for many students in Manipur.
Yohen Longjam eyes Civil Services
From Sagolband Mabudhou Mantri Leikai, Yohen is the younger son of Johnstone Higher Secondary School teacher Longjam Wildburd and homemaker Longjam Lakshmi.
Speaking to the media, Yohen said he expected to rank high but was surprised to secure first position.
He credited his parents and teachers at Comprehensive Concept School for guiding him whenever he faced difficulty in his subjects.
He plans to graduate from a reputed college before appearing for the civil services to serve the public.
Yohen also raised concern over frequent school closures and disturbances in the State.
"They significantly hinder students' academic progress and motivation", he said, appealing for an environment where education can proceed without interruption.
'MBBS First, Then IAS': Kalpana
From Wangoo Tera Hodam Leirak in Kakching District, Kalpana is the second of five siblings to Takhellambam Prata - a retired Manipur Police officer now in furniture business - and homemaker Takhellambam Ongbi Tamu.
Kalpana credited her parents, teachers, and neighbors for her success.
Currently enrolled in NEET coaching at COMET, she plans to pursue medicine.
"After completing MBBS, I remain committed to appearing for the UPSC Civil Services examination", she said.
Her interest in the IAS stems from a desire to address administrative issues and corruption in the State.
"I want to work toward a better Manipur by helping, establish a system where the rule of law and justice prevail", Kalpana told reporters.
Her parents expressed immense joy at her achievement.
Her father shared his wish to see her serve the people of Manipur as an IAS officer, while her mother pledged full support to help Kalpana reach her goals.
As Manipur's toppers look ahead, their stories inspire resilience, blending personal ambition with a plea for stability to secure the state's future.
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