MU Confers First Media Awards on World Environment Day, Recognising Journalists' Role in Environmental Awareness
Imphal, June 5, 2025: Manipur University celebrated its 45th Foundation Day alongside World Environment Day on June 5, 2025, at the University Auditorium. The event commemorated the institution’s journey, achievements, and its pivotal role in the expansion of higher education in Manipur and the North East over the past four decades.
The celebration was graced by Prof. N. Lokendra Singh, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor of Manipur University, as Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam, Dean, School of Mathematical & Physical Sciences, and Prof. Th. Binoy Singh, Registrar (i/c), as Guests of Honour. Prof. A. Rajmani Singha, Director, IQAC, delivered the keynote address, while Prof. S. Jibonkumar Singh, Dean, School of Human & Environmental Science, presided over the event.
The function witnessed the participation of Ms. Soniya Sorensangbam, Vice-President of the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU), along with Deans, HoDs, Directors, faculty, administrative officers, representatives of MUTA, MUSA, MUSU, and retired staff members.
In his address, Prof. Lokendra Singh underscored the significance of celebrating Foundation Day alongside World Environment Day, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between knowledge creation and environmental sustainability. He congratulated the recipients of the first Manipur University Media Awards 2024–25 for their efforts in fostering environmental consciousness through journalism.
Speaking on Manipur’s environmental challenges, the Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the inevitability of urbanisation but stressed the need for effective planning to mitigate its impact. He outlined the University's growth from a modest Jawaharlal Nehru University Centre to a full-fledged central university with 47 departments under nine schools, and highlighted initiatives such as the introduction of Master's programmes in Human Rights and Myanmar & China Studies in the upcoming academic session.
He also advocated for the development of agroforestry and marketing strategies to enhance the state and regional economy. Acknowledging the efforts of all stakeholders, he reaffirmed MU’s commitment to fostering knowledge, skills, and innovation among students.
Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam described the Foundation Day as an opportunity to reflect on the University’s journey and challenges, while Prof. Th. Binoy Singh extended gratitude to all staff, students, and community stakeholders for their support.
In his presidential address, Prof. S. Jibonkumar Singh stated that the dual celebration added meaningful significance to the day, noting MU's emergence as a leading academic institution in the region. Prof. A. Rajmani Singha, in his keynote speech, expressed appreciation for the VC’s leadership and detailed MU’s academic achievements, growing student enrolment, and affiliated institutions.
The event honoured nine superannuated faculty members and nine retired non-teaching staff with Certificates of Appreciation, mementos, and traditional lengyan, recognising their dedication and service. A special Certificate of Appreciation was presented to Dr. Sivakumar Vijayaraghavalu, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, for securing patents during 2023–24.
To encourage environmental journalism, MU launched the Manipur University Media Awards (MUMA) 2024–25, recognising journalists for their contribution to public awareness on sanitation, cleanliness, and environmental issues. Awardees included Bijoy Laishram, Sub-editor, Hueiyen Lanpao Manipuri Daily (print media), and Kshetrimayum Premchand Singh, Chief Reporter, SKTV News (electronic media). Both received ₹10,000 cash prizes, mementos, and citations.
The function concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Ch. Ibohal Singh, Dean of Students’ Welfare, expressing gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor, dignitaries, and participants. The event began with the felicitation of guests and the University Anthem, reinforcing the values of higher education and environmental stewardship.
The joint observance of Foundation Day and World Environment Day reflected Manipur University’s enduring commitment to educational excellence, sustainability, and community engagement.
