DIMAPUR: The three day 8th Skill Fest 2026 organised by Oriental College Kohima (OCK) in collaboration with 13 Assam Rifles Kohima under the theme “Skill Up for a Better Tomorrow” concluded successfully on July 18, 2026 with a valedictory programme at the OCK Auditorium.
The festival featured hands on training in seven trades-baking, basket making, carpentry, car repairing, crochet, electrical fitting and food processing-with students actively participating in sessions aimed at equipping them with practical skills, creativity and life skills.
According to a press release, special guest Major Anshuman Sawant emphasised that competence, teamwork, adaptability and life skills were essential for both soldiers and students. Commending the institution’s efforts in promoting skill development, he said such initiatives helped build confidence, self reliance and responsible citizenship. He urged students to never stop learning, reminding them that while degrees might open doors, it was skills that determined success. He further encouraged students to not fear failure but to learn from setbacks and continue using their skills for personal growth and nation building.
Delivering her address at the inaugural session, vice principal (Administration) Chibeni Murry stated that Skill Fest was initiated in 2017 under the leadership of then principal Dr. Ketshukietuo Dzüvichü with the objective of equipping students with practical skills to adapt to an ever changing world. She said that while employment could not be guaranteed, the initiative was a humble effort to develop students’ personalities and prepare them with skills that would provide an added advantage in the future. Stressing that education and skills must go hand in hand, she encouraged students to make the best use of the opportunity and continue learning new skills throughout their lives.
The second day of the festival was devoted to practical training across the seven trades, providing students with hands on learning experiences under the guidance of resource persons.
Delivering the concluding remarks at the valedictory session, principal Dr. Watinaro Longkumer commended the enthusiasm and active participation of students throughout the festival and reaffirmed the college’s commitment to holistic education by integrating academic learning with practical skill development.
