Children's Cultural Meet celebrates spirit of empowerment, cultural heritage
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 14 2024: Wide Angle in collaboration with CRY (Child Rights & You) organised the "Annual Children's Cultural Meet" at the office of Wide Angle in Sagolband Moirang Hanuba today.

The Meet was participated by children from 5 villages of Imphal West District, who are presently getting support from Remedial Coaching Centre, and children from Planet Kids Moiranghanuba & Yaiskul.

According to a release issued by Wide Angle, the event brought together young participants to showcase their talents and celebrate the joy of cultural expression.

The theme of the programme, "Protect, Educate, Empower", resonated through each performance and speech, reinforcing the collective commitment to Child Rights and Empowerment.

The event featured cultural dance performances choreographed by dance teacher Donaldo Ahanthem, who had spent months training and inspiring the students in different traditional dance forms.

These performances highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Manipur while embodying the theme of protection and empowerment.

The programme commenced with a warm welcome from Jenita Rajkumari, Project Coordinator of CRY (Child Rights and You).

She acknowledged the participants and their families, expressing gratitude for the continuous support from parents, volunteers, and community members.

Jenita also stressed on the importance of such events in developing a sense of community and resilience among children from diverse backgrounds.

Montu Ahanthem, secretary of Wide Angle and former Member of the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR), delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces for children to learn, grow, and express themselves.

Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, Keisham Pradipkumar, Chairperson of MCPCR, stressed on the significance of supporting programmes that give a supportive and inclusive environment for children.

He commended Wide Angle and CRY for their consistent efforts in addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by vulnerable children and empowering them through education and cultural initiatives.

Keisham Pradipkumar also announced the introduction of the Ahanthem Ongbi Haobam Lembi Devi Meritorious Award, a new initiative to recognize and reward academic excellence among children from Wide Angle's Remedial Centres.

Starting from the academic session 2025-26, this award will be presented annually to the student securing the highest percentage in the final examination.

The award will include a certificate and a cash prize of Rs 12,000 .

President of the function, S Sharat Kumar Sharma, advisor to Wide Angle and former Chairperson of MCPCR, highlighted the role of cultural activities and its importance in holistic child development.

The Annual Children's Cultural Meet concluded with a vote of thanks by MIS Coordinator Lakshmirani Rajkumari.

The event not only showcased children's cultural talents but also reinforced the mission to protect and nurture children through education, empowerment, and community support.

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