Peace Channel, in collaboration with the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) and the North East Diocesan Social Service Society (NEDSSS), commemorated the International Day of Peace on September 21where Geoffrey Meyikokba Yaden, editor Nagaland Post was feted with Peace Award at NEISSR hall here on Saturday.
Speaking on the occasion as chief guest, Deputy Inspector General of Police (CID) K.P.A.
Ilyas felicitated Geoffrey Yaden on being presented with the Peace Channel Peace Award. Illyas spoke of the decades of service rendered by Yaden as founder-editor of Nagaland Post to the people.
On Peace, he emphasized the importance of transformation over mere conflict resolution, urging the audience to seek lasting change that addresses the root causes of discord. Illyas also said Nagaland is the safest place for women, citing various official records.
He attributed this to the traditional culture among Nagas where women are respected. He also emphasised on spreading awareness on peace across various institutions.
In a brief speech, Special Guest Emeritus, Bishop of Kohima Diocese, Most Rev. Jose Mukala highlighted the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly focusing on the moment after His resurrection when He appeared to His disciples and said, “Peace be with you.”
Mukala emphasized that we are continuing that mission today. He urged everyone to take responsibility for applying justice, opening paths of understanding and fraternity, and building a harmonious society. Mukala challenged everyone to ensure that this endeavor achieves its goal of making peace a guiding principle in our society.
Earlier in his welcome address , Director Peace Channel & NEISSR Principal Dr. Fr. C.P. Anto. emphasized the enduring significance of good deeds, encouraging everyone to embrace and nurture them, ensuring their positive impact extends far and wide.
He said Peace Channel was launched in 2005 through the blessings of Rev Bishop Mukala. He also reminded the audience of their shared responsibility as ambassadors of peace, urging them to continue their journey of promoting harmony.
The main highlight of the programme was presentation of Peace Channel Award to Geoffrey Meyikokba Yaden, a distinguished figure in Nagaland and the Founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of the Nagaland Post.
While giving the citation, Peace Channel Elizabeth Pojar Asst. Prof., NEISSR mentioned about Yaden’s lifelong dedication to peace-building through journalism, an often underappreciated but powerful tool for fostering unity, understanding, and positive change in society.
Through the decades, through Nagaland Post, Yaden has sought to give voice to the Naga people, offering them a platform to engage with critical issues, express their aspirations, and address the complex social, political, and economic challenges they face.
By facilitating open dialogue and encouraging civic participation, his journalism has contributed significantly to peace-building efforts in a region often fraught with conflict, she added.
The Peace Channel award was presented by chief guest Dr Illyas including a cheque by Emeritus Bishop of Kohima Rev. Jose Mukala. In his acceptance speech, Geoffrey Meyikokba Yaden expressed gratitude to the Director and board members of Peace Channel for the award as he was part of the PC.
He also shared a few experiences during the turbulent 90s when Nagaland Post was the only news daily. Yaden also reiterated that the newspaper was to empower individuals to address issues so as to create awareness for positive outcome. He expressed the hope that Peace Channel will continue to be a beacon and embody the biblical precept of being ‘salt and light’ in its endeavor for peace.
Earlier the programme was moderated by Elizabeth Pojar and James Phanungkiu. The welcome address was delivered by peace channel Director & NEISSR Principal Dr. Fr. C.P Anto and the opening prayer was pronounced by NEISSR Vice Principal Rev.Fr G.L Khing.
Little Flower School, Chumoukedima presented a folk song. Vote of thanks was delivered by peace channel, trainer Jose V Abraham and benediction by peace channel, woman coordinator Caroline Leisan.
The event concluded with the culmination of the 17th Peace Knit Fest 2024, by announcing the winners from the various group and individual activities held during the festival’s first day. Maria Goretti Beck and Vizokhotuo Suokhrie, from Salesian College of Higher Education, Dimapur, were awarded as the Miss an Mr Peace Knit 2024, respectively.