National Seminar on Education and Skill Development Held at Don Bosco College, Maram in Manipur

Maram, Manipur, March 29, 2025– The Department of Social Work at Don Bosco College, Maram, in Manipur, organised a two-day national seminar on “Education and Skill Development: Pathways for Children and Youth Empowerment” on March 27 and 28. The event brought together academicians, practitioners, research scholars, and students from across the country to discuss strategies for strengthening education and skill development. The seminar also aimed to explore inclusive and equitable learning pathways for marginalised communities.

The inaugural session of the seminar was attended by S. Lungbuiba Thangal, MCS, SDO/BDO Purul, and former president of Thangal Anleinao Jonlong (TAJ), alongside Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Sebastian K.O., principal of Don Bosco College. The session commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. This was followed by an invocation prayer led by Fr. Devassy Pallaty, Rector of the college.

In his welcome address, Rev. Fr. Dr. K.O. Sebastian commended the Department of Social Work for its engagement in diverse initiatives and emphasised the evolving nature of education. He stressed the significance of integrating academic knowledge with skill development, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP). He urged a shift in societal attitudes toward skill-based professions and encouraged a holistic approach to learning.

S. Lungbuiba Thangal highlighted the seminar’s relevance and emphasised the challenges faced by government schools due to inadequate infrastructure and financial constraints. He acknowledged the role of private institutions in bridging these gaps and called for continued discussions to drive meaningful educational reforms. He also encouraged students and educators to work hard and contribute to society.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Elija Chara. This was followed by multiple technical sessions featuring scholars from premier institutions such as Assam University, Mizoram University, Nagaland University, Manipur University, Arunachal University of Studies, Kristu Jayanti College (Bengaluru), and Rajiv Gandhi University (Arunachal Pradesh). Experts and faculty members engaged in in-depth deliberations. Discussions covered challenges in accessing quality education and training opportunities and the transformative role of skill enhancement programmes. Participants emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration in advancing education and skill-building initiatives.

The event concluded with a valedictory session, where certificates of participation and presentation were awarded to contributors in recognition of their efforts. Dr. Evergreat Wanglar, Head of the Department of Social Work, expressed gratitude to all participants and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to fostering educational empowerment.

By Tungthang Zou