The 41st foundation day of SASRD: Nagaland University (NU), Medziphema campus-&-alumni meet was celebrated on October 24 with the 7th batch of SASRD hosting the feast. Secretary Tourism, Government of Nagaland, Mhabemo Yanthan, graced the occasion as special guest, and director Land Resources, Hoto Yeptho, was the guest of honour.
A press release by department of Agri extension SASRD, NU Medziphema campus professor, J. Longkumer stated that the special guest in his address proclaimed that SASRD was a premier institute because it had produced professionals, engaged in various capacities in the administration and agriculture and allied departments in Nagaland who, he said, were executing their work commendably and professionally. He opined that it was high time that change in agricultural dynamics were ushered in through new policies and new methods to alleviate the problems of farmers and give them sustainable livelihood methods.
Hoto Yeptho, who is from the first batch of SASRD, in his speech exhorted the students to know God, work hard and to gain knowledge, and not just a degree. He encouraged the students to really understand what was being taught so that their core knowledge could be solid.
In his foundation day lecture, Dr. Umed Pun highlighted the various avenues of entrepreneurial activities in horticulture that the graduates could venture into. He encouraged the students to come out of their comfort zones and explore the world. This year the Peri Om Pun Excellence Award for the topper of B. Sc. (Hons) Ag I year was also instituted. The annual award of Rs. 10,000 is being sponsored by Dr. Umed Pun, SASRD alumnae from the 7th batch as a thanksgiving to his parents. The first Peri Om Excellence Award for 2017-18 was awarded to Vijaya Lakshmi of B. Sc. (Hons) Ag.
The annual SASRD alumni award of Rs. 20,000 and citation for the B. Sc. (Hons) Ag Topper 2017-18 was awarded to Himami Hajong.
The program was chaired by professor, L. Tongpang Longkumer; invocation was offered by professor, L. Daiho; vice principal IETC, Dr. Watila Jamir, reminisced about her days in the 7th batch of SASRD. Dean professor, M. Aleminla Ao gave the welcome address; short exhortation was delivered by professor, T. Lanusosang; special songs were presented by EU:SASRD and SASRD students; while vote of thanks was delivered by J. Akato Chishi. The evening program’s main headliner was the DGP band.