NBSE chairman calls for stronger science ecosystem

DIMAPUR, OCT 28 (NPN): Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) chairman, Rangumbuing Nsarangbe, on Wednesday stressed the need to expand science education across Nagaland, noting that only 61 schools in 14 districts currently offer the science stream.
Addressing a programme at Pilgrim Higher Secondary School (PHSS), Kuda ‘B’, Dimapur, where he virtually inaugurated the school’s science laboratory block and conference hall, Nsarangbe said the 61 schools comprised 20 government and 41 private institutions. He pointed out that Shamator, Longleng and Noklak districts still did not have any school offering the science stream.
Highlighting the importance of science education, he said students of Pilgrim Higher Secondary School were fortunate to have access to science laboratories and related facilities, while students in some districts continued to face limited opportunities.
Emphasising the growing role of science and technology in everyday life and development, Nsarangbe commended the school management for introducing the science stream and establishing laboratory facilities. Drawing from his experience as a science teacher, he encouraged students to make full use of the laboratories to explore, experiment and develop creativity through practical learning.
The NBSE chairman also highlighted the board’s initiatives to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education across the state. Recalling the board’s Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2024, he said students from different districts had participated in STEM activities in Kohima, demonstrating that talent existed throughout Nagaland, including in remote areas.
He informed that NBSE, in collaboration with Shikhar Academy, Mumbai, planned to organise a Science Olympiad next year to encourage students to pursue science-related disciplines. The proposal, including prize money, would be discussed at an upcoming Project Management Unit meeting, he added.
Referring to the importance of promoting all academic streams, Nsarangbe said NBSE had organised a career counselling programme at Holy Cross Higher Secondary School on October 26, where five resource persons from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India interacted with around 1,400 commerce students on career opportunities in the field.
He urged science teachers to stay updated with the latest developments in science and technology and equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to meet future challenges.
The chairman also outlined key initiatives under the National Education Policy (NEP), including the Holistic Progress Card, Integrated Test Management System (ITMS) and School Quality Assessment and Accreditation Framework (SQAAF).
He said the Holistic Progress Card would transform the assessment process by evaluating students throughout the teaching-learning period rather than relying solely on examinations conducted after classroom instruction. Teachers across the state would be trained to implement the system, with trained teachers later serving as master trainers in their respective schools.
On ITMS, Nsarangbe said NBSE was collaborating with a Hyderabad-based firm to develop a portal that would assist teachers in preparing competency-based questions.
Regarding SQAAF, he said the framework would introduce multiple parameters for assessing and grading schools, with the information made available to the public through an online portal. This, he said, would enable parents to make informed decisions regarding their children’s education.
Calling for stronger collaboration among teachers and school administrators, Nsarangbe stressed the need to build a more progressive and effective education ecosystem in Nagaland. He also encouraged educators to openly share their views and challenges for constructive discussions.
Earlier, school principal Kaini Khekho Kikon said an educational institution was built on vision, commitment, relationships and the belief that every child had the potential to contribute meaningfully to society.
She expressed gratitude to Nsarangbe for supporting the introduction of the science stream at the school and for his continued efforts in promoting STEM education in Nagaland.
Kikon said the school aimed not only to help students excel academically but also to prepare them for life. She also acknowledged the support of parents, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when classes shifted online.
According to her, the cooperation of parents and dedication of teachers ensured that not a single class was cancelled during that period, highlighting the importance of strong school-parent partnerships.
She further informed that around 80% of the installation work had been completed and that the inauguration was scheduled to coincide with the NBSE chairman’s visit. The remaining work, she added, would be completed shortly.
The programme began with a presentation of “Count Your Blessings” by Class IV students, followed by a welcome address. The three science laboratories and conference hall were virtually inaugurated by the NBSE chairman. The programme also featured a prayer by Pastor Lloyd Lobo, a vote of thanks by Toshi, and an interaction session between Nsarangbe and teachers.