Correspondent
KOHIMA, JUL 17 (NPN): The newly constructed Government Primary School building at Kewhitsütuo Model, Kohima was inaugurated on Friday with advisor for School Education and SCERT, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, lauding the community for its initiative in strengthening public education.
Addressing the programme as chief guest, Dr. Yhome said the school building, constructed entirely by the local community, reflected the people’s commitment to improving government education. “We have only come here to witness what you have all accomplished,” he remarked, commending the community for acting without waiting for government intervention.
Highlighting Kewhitsütuo’s significance as an area earmarked for future expansion of Kohima Village under Tsütuonuomia Khel (T.Khel), he noted that the village has contributed immensely to the city’s growth by making land available for public infrastructure and development. At the same time, he cautioned that rapid urbanisation has placed increasing pressure on village land resources. He praised the foresight of Tsütuonuomia elders for reserving land for educational purposes, describing it as an investment for future generations.
Drawing a comparison between places of worship and schools, Dr. Yhome remarked that while churches nurture faith, schools are “temples of education” that liberate society through learning. He expressed satisfaction over the steady progress of the Government Primary School, which currently has 67 students-32 boys and 35 girls-managed by eight teachers under the leadership of the head teacher. He also appreciated the School Management Committee for its role in guiding the institution’s development.
Comparing the initiative to the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) model, Dr. Yhome said Nagaland’s tribal communities embody a similar spirit through what he termed “Community Support Resources.” He praised the generosity of Tsütuonuomia Khel, saying the community’s contribution demonstrated how local institutions could actively promote public welfare and educational development. He further informed that the School Education Department has begun documenting such community-led initiatives to encourage similar efforts across the state. Looking ahead, he said the school could eventually be upgraded into a composite school given the area’s strategic location and expected population growth.
Delivering the keynote address, chairman of T. Khel Council, K. Neibou Sekhose, described the occasion as an exciting chapter in Tsütuonuomia’s history. He said the new school building, constructed entirely through the T. Khel Council Fund, fulfilled a vision conceived in the late 1970s and reflected the community’s commitment to prioritising education. He disclosed that plans were already underway for a higher secondary school and an international-standard stadium to provide sports infrastructure. He also acknowledged the flagging off of a sanitation vehicle funded by the Tsütuonuomia Council, symbolising dignity, public health and community pride, serving more than 800 residents across 250 households.
KMC chairman Neibodzelie Solo highlighted proper waste management as a key priority for the growing locality, urging residents to adopt responsible disposal practices. He also appealed to the public to actively participate in the Census 2027 exercise, stressing the importance of accurate population data for future planning.
The programme began with an invocation by Rev. Atuo Whuorie, pastor of Baptist Mission Church. A welcome address was delivered by Er. Kelhousinyü Solo, chairman of Kewhitsütuo Model, while students of the school presented a special song. The programme was compered by Kiyakhrienuo Solo and Visasielie Suohu.