Manipur colleges host symposium on cross-border conflict resolution

The Presidency College in Manipur's Motbung, in collaboration with Oasis College, Kangpokpi, hosted an International Symposium on the theme “Trans-Border Cross-Cultural Conflict Resolution: Challenges and Prospects”, on May 20 at the seminar hall of the college.

 
The symposium, jointly organised by the Research and Seminar Committee and IQAC of Presidency College and the Research and Development Cell and IQAC of Oasis College, brought together leading scholars, educators, and thinkers to engage in a critical discourse on the complexities of borderland conflicts and intercultural understanding in contemporary times.

 
The event follows the successful Faculty Development Programme held yesterday by the same institutions, marking two days of intense academic deliberation and faculty enrichment.

 
Rev. K. Hangnung, President of North East India Baptist Theological College & Seminary, Silchar, graced the inaugural session with a solemn invocation prayer. Dr. Sheikhohao Kipgen, Principal of Presidency College, and Dr. Thathang Vaiphei, Convenor of the symposium, delivered the welcome and keynote addresses, setting the tone for the day’s proceedings.
 

The highlight of the symposium was the second technical session, which featured distinguished academics as resource persons, such as, Prof. Jangkhongam Doungel, Department of Political Science, Mizoram University; Prof. Jangkhomang Guite, Department of History, Nagaland University; and Prof. Pum Khan Pau, Department of History, Nagaland University.
 

These esteemed scholars offered deep insights into the historical, political, and socio-cultural dynamics that underlie cross-border conflicts in South and Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on the Northeast Indian context. Discussions touched upon the historical roots of trans-border ethnic tensions, and the role of academic diplomacy in fostering understanding across communities.

 
The symposium also addressed the prospects for sustainable peacebuilding through intercultural dialogue, education, and inclusive policy frameworks. Participants engaged in dynamic Q&A sessions, exchanging ideas on conflict mitigation strategies and the importance of cultural empathy in cross-border relations.
 

Faculties of Presidency Colleges Motbung, Oasis College Kangpokpi, students of both the college, KIM and KSO representatives, prominent social activist Dr. Lamtinthang Haokip, and others also attended the symposium.

 
This international academic exchange not only amplified critical perspectives on borderland issues but also reaffirmed the commitment of Presidency College and Oasis Colleges to intellectual leadership and regional transformation through collaborative research and dialogue.