12 August 2003 The ORT Manipur Computer Centre was inaugurated at the end of June, at a ceremony in the Beith Shalom Synagogue Hall. The centre, to offer diplomas in a variety of computer related subjects, will provide important skills for the local Jewish and non Jewish community. The ORT Manipur Computer Centre, located in the province of Churachandpur, in the north east Indian state of Manipur, consists of a computer laboratory with 6 terminals, and a classroom accommodating 18 students. The centre, which opened its doors to students in early August, already has a full student roll. Courses currently offered at the centre include a 6 month Higher Diploma in Computer Management; a 3 month diploma in Desk Top Publishing; a diploma in Computer Management; and a 1 month crash course in both basic and programming software. Participants in the ceremony included guest of honour, T.N. Haokip, Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly who officially opened the centre; S. Minlianthang Vaiphei, ADC Churachandpur; Mecabee Touthang, President of the Bnei Menashe Council, Manipur; and Samson Massil, Head of the ORT India Computer Centre, Mumbai. During the ceremony, guests were given a tour of the ORT Manipur Computer Center, and entertained by the Beith Shalom Youth Group Choir. Benny Khongsai, Secretary of the ORT Manipur Computer Centre provided the guests with an update as to the progress of the project which culminated in the opening of the Computer Centre, and Samson Massil, who had given valuable assistance and support to ORT Manipur in the setting up of the centre, presented the history, background and development of the project. Samson Massil with faculty staff at the ORT Manipur Computer Centre The ORT Manipur Computer Centre Staff and students from the Opening Ceremony at the ORT Manipur Computer Centre