Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, JUL 25 (NPN): Vinolen John, who recently graduated with a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in History from the University of Cambridge, says he hopes to contribute to preserving and promoting Naga history through research, describing his graduation as “a stepping stone” towards greater academic pursuits.
According to John, he is only the second Naga to graduate from the University of Cambridge after Dr. Atoho Jakhalu in 2005. He added that if he completes a doctoral degree there, he would become the first Naga to earn a doctorate from the university.
John, who graduated at the Senate House on July 24, said he hoped his achievement would inspire younger Nagas to pursue higher education and contribute to society through academic excellence.
Reflecting on his journey, John expressed concern over the vast amount of historical material on the Nagas preserved in British archives and universities. He said he was “appalled at the amount of resources and data about us” available overseas and “even more stunned by the fact that we Nagas show so little interest in them.” Stressing that Naga history remains relatively young, he said it was essential to ensure it was not distorted for future generations. He said his interest in Naga history developed during his time at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, while his experience at Cambridge strengthened his passion for Naga political history, conflict, decolonisation and public history. He said he hopes to help build a stronger research culture in Nagaland through archival projects involving younger Nagas.
Elaborating on his vision of telling “the Naga story, told by Nagas, for the Nagas,” John said the challenge was not the lack of historical material but the absence of a strong research culture and critical inquiry. Rejecting the notion that Nagas have no history, he said the community has a rich past, though one marked by ambiguities and conflicting narratives, requiring credible research by Naga scholars.
On the role of history in reconciliation, John said, “If a people know their own history, and know it to be true, nothing and nobody can shake them.” He added that historical knowledge must be supported by “proof, verifiable and quantifiable evidence.”
Encouraging young Nagas to dream beyond their immediate surroundings, John urged them to seek opportunities globally. Crediting his success to his faith, family and friends, he said he hopes his achievement will inspire younger Nagas by demonstrating that “our own people can also go out and compete with the very best that the rest of the world is producing.”
Looking ahead, John said he hopes to write history that is accessible to ordinary readers, particularly younger generations, while continuing archival projects that help preserve and promote Naga heritage.