NECU marks Girl Child Day with call for empowerment

North East Christian University’s (NECU) Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) observed International Day of the Girl Child on October 13 at the University Seminar Hall, CARS cum CTC building, under the theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls in the Frontlines of Crisis.”
Speaking on the theme, chairperson of Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Dimapur, Moamenla Yaden, said that the day was a reminder to acknowledge both the rights and challenges faced by girls, including female infanticide, lack of access to education, poor sanitation, school dropouts, sexual abuse, and gender-based restrictions.
She emphasized that girls must not see themselves as vulnerable, but as capable leaders and innovators already creating solutions. “Girls are not waiting for others to fix the world,” she said, mentioning that the phrase “The Change I Lead” celebrates the leadership girls are already demonstrating.
Sharing personal experiences, Moamenla spoke of growing up with two brothers and being raised as an equal. She recalled how learning to drive early gave her confidence and symbolized independence. Overcoming shyness and stage fright, she said, came through persistent self-challenge.
Inspired by Mother Teresa, Moamenla said her childhood vision to help the vulnerable led her to her current role in child protection. She stressed the importance of knowing one’s rights—education, safety, protection from abuse, equality, and freedom from trafficking—and urged students to use their voice to break the cycle of silence.
She encouraged girls to embrace their personality, whether shy or outspoken, and reminded them that change begins with speaking up and taking action. She also called on adults, educators, and leaders to go beyond programmes and actively support girl-led initiatives and challenge stereotypes.
Concluding her speech, Moamenla urged the audience to be brave, visible, and vocal, stating that change begins in classrooms, conversations, and small actions. “Help is available,” she said, “but it starts with the courage to reach out and speak up.”
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Asst. Professor, Psychology Programme, Nenchu Kath. A special song was presented by Rüvelü Theyo, BPT 5th semester, and vote of thanks was delivered by IQAC coordinator, Dr. Chibenthung Yanthan.