Ukhrul: Aakash Digital SIP Program Launched at KTL Excel Hr Sec School

Ukhrul, May 19: Towards enhancing digital education in Manipur’s popular hill station Ukhrul, Aakash Educational Services Limited officially launched its Aakash Digital Integrated Program (SIP) at KTL Excel Higher Secondary School, Ukhrul, today. The program aims to provide structured and smart learning opportunities for students aspiring for Medical, IIT-JEE, and foundational courses.

The launch ceremony was held at the Trinity Chamber of the school and witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, parents, school faculty, and dignitaries. The event was graced by Dr. I.K. Muivah, IPS, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Manipur, as the Chief Guest.

The Chief Guest officially launched the Aakash Digital SIP Program, and shared a visionary Inaugural Address, emphasising the role of smart education tools in empowering students from remote district like Ukhrul.

The regional branch of Aakash Educational Services Ltd., Guwahati, officially presented the Authorisation Statement via video, where he said that the smart learning opportunities facility launched in Ukhrul is the first of its kind in Manipur.

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In his keynote address, Dr. I.K. Muivah, IPS, expressed deep satisfaction at witnessing the live demonstration of the smart board technology, especially in subjects like Science and Biology. He remarked that the implementation of smart learning tools in schools had been a long-cherished dream of his for over five years, and seeing it materialise at KTL Excel Higher Secondary School brought him immense joy.

Dr. I.K. Muivah reflected candidly on the educational challenges faced by the Tangkhul community, a predominantly agrarian society. He noted that the historical lack of emphasis on Science and Mathematics among hill tribes was not due to a lack of intelligence, but rather the result of cultural and environmental factors. Drawing a comparison, he spoke about coastal and trading communities in India, who, due to their exposure to commerce involving silk and spices, developed strong mathematical skills over generations. In contrast, tribal communities in the hills often did not have the same context or need for numeracy, leading to gaps in foundational education, such as the non existence of vocabulary of counting beyond 1,000 in native dialects.

He firmly dispelled the notion that this was due to any genetic limitation, asserting instead that hill communities possess immense innate potential. While encouraging continued excellence in fields like sports, music, and the arts, Dr. Muivah emphasised the urgent need to close the gap in Science and Mathematics education within the community.

Describing KTL Excel Hr Sec School as one of the largest and best-performing institutions in Ukhrul, he said that the launch of a dedicated program focused on Engineering and Medical preparation could become a pivotal moment for the district. He encouraged parents to take full advantage of the new facilities, underscoring the importance of early exposure and structured learning in these fields.

Dr. I.K. Muivah in his speech called for a transformative shift in mindset among Tangkhul families. Referring to the example of South India, where a majority of students, including children from modest backgrounds like rickshaw drivers, pursue Science and Mathematics, he advocated for similar ambition within the hill communities. With consistent effort and the right guidance, he envisioned a future where the Tangkhul people could produce surgeons, engineers, and scientists in significant numbers.

The event began with the gathering of students and parents at 11:30 AM, followed by the arrival of dignitaries at 11:45 AM. A ceremonial reception of the Chief Guest was held at noon, accompanied by an Invocation of Blessing from Rev. Dr. Wungramthan Shongzan, Director, TTA.

A highlight of the ceremony was the melodic performance “Ili Pharasang Kahai” by the school band, and a skit on environmental awareness performed by KTL students. The event also included a powerful mime show titled “Save Water, Save Life”, bringing attention to vital social and environmental issues.

The event also featured a choreographed display by Class VI students, a Hymn of Praise “Have Thine Own Way”, and a Thanksgiving Prayer offered by Rev. Remember Rimai, Pastor of Ukhrul Town Baptist Church.

Moderated by Sira Zimik and Ramiwon Shangjam, both PGTs at the school, the event was attended by family of students and well wishers from all walks of life.