Imphal, September 19, 2026: The Manipur University Working Women’s Association (MUWWA) observed its Foundation Day and organised its Annual Lunch Programme at the MUWWA Office, Manipur University, on 18 September 2026. The occasion also honoured retired members of the Association and felicitated Dr. Pukhrambam Lilabati Devi for receiving the National Award to Teachers of Higher Educational Institutions and Polytechnics–2026.
Prof. R.K. Hemakumar Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Manipur University, attended the programme as Chief Guest. Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam, former Vice-Chancellor of Manipur University, was the Guest of Honour, while Prof. Memcha Loitongbam, President of MUWWA, presided over the function.
Delivering the welcome address, Prof. Toijam Tampha Devi, Vice-President of MUWWA, welcomed the dignitaries, retired members and representatives of different sections of the University. She said the programme brought together the Foundation Day celebration, the Association’s annual lunch and the felicitation of members whose contributions and achievements had brought pride to the University community.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam recalled the growth of MUWWA and described it as a distinctive platform that brings together women from different age groups, professions, designations and sections of the University. She said the Association had created friendships and a sense of companionship beyond official responsibilities and professional hierarchies.
Prof. Sumitra also drew the attention of the Vice-Chancellor to the shortage of staff at the crèche centre of the University. She requested the University administration to consider strengthening the centre so that it could serve working women and their children more effectively.
Prof. R.K. Hemakumar Singh congratulated MUWWA on its Foundation Day and appreciated its role in supporting women employees and strengthening fellowship within the University. Responding to the concern raised regarding the crèche centre, the Vice-Chancellor assured that the University would make all possible efforts, within its capacity, to support working women and address their genuine requirements.
Prof. Memcha Loitongbam said MUWWA had completed more than three decades of service as a supportive and inclusive platform for women in the University. She called upon members, particularly younger members, to participate more actively in its programmes and contribute towards strengthening the Association. She also congratulated Dr. Pukhrambam Lilabati Devi and encouraged other members to pursue achievements that would bring distinction to the University.
Speaking on her journey towards receiving the National Award, Dr. Pukhrambam Lilabati Devi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Dance and Music, expressed gratitude to the individuals and University authorities who supported and encouraged her. She shared her experiences as a teacher, researcher and practitioner of Manipuri dance and Bharatanatyam and spoke about her work in pedagogy, academic publications and performing arts education. She said the recognition had strengthened her commitment to teaching and to making knowledge accessible to students and research scholars.
During the programme, MUWWA felicitated retired members Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam of the Department of Physics; Prof. K. Shantibala Devi of the Department of Manipuri; Prof. N. Pramodini Devi of the Department of Linguistics; Prof. M. Damayanti Devi of the Department of Botany; R.K. Bidyapati Chanu, Senior Assistant; and Golmei Luninglu Kabuni, Sweeper, in recognition of their services and association with the University.
Dr. Pukhrambam Lilabati Devi was also felicitated for receiving the National Award to Teachers of Higher Educational Institutions and Polytechnics–2026, conferred by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Dr. Koijam Sobita Devi, General Secretary of MUWWA, delivered the vote of thanks.
T Shantikumar Singh, Controller of Examinations, Manipur University; Dr Kshetrimayum Narayan Singh, President of the Manipur University Teachers’ Association (MUTA); RK Sa Sanatomba Singh, President of the Manipur University Staff Association (MUSA); retired members, teaching and non-teaching employees and members of MUWWA attended the programme.
