St. John School, Kiusam, kicked started its annual sports extravaganza with great enthusiasm and community spirit on Tuesday with North East Contractor (NEC) Nagaland, Kevilhoukho Rio, as the chief guest, accompanied by Neibulie Rio and Tsemy Tep, an NEC engineer.
The ceremony drew a distinguished gathering, including Principal of Loyola Hr. Sec. School Kiphire, Rev. Fr. Philip Magh; Vice Principal, Rev. Fr. Marius Patton; Rev. Sr. Lucy; Simon Anar; along with public leaders, pastors, parents and other guests.
In his inaugural address, Kevilhoukho Rio emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, discipline and excellence. He encouraged students to nurture their talents and highlighted the role of sports in fostering both mental and physical well-being.
Principal of St. John School, Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, welcomed the guests and expressed gratitude to Rio’s team for their contributions to the Kiusam region, including road construction, school ground levelling and drainage system improvements. He reaffirmed the school’s commitment to holistic development alongside academic excellence.
Rev. Fr. Philip Magh commended the school leadership, staff and parents for their dedication, noting the remarkable growth in student enrolment and academic standards in recent years.
The programme, emceed by Catherine, featured a prayer dance, welcome song, flag unfurling and the lighting of the sports torch by the chief guest. A spirited march past by the four school houses, drill displays, cultural dances and a nursery performance added vibrancy to the occasion.
Headmaster Adani David concluded the formal proceedings with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the support of guests and parents. The chief guest then declared the games open, personally visiting each house to extend his best wishes.
The inauguration ended on a communal note, with a shared meal for all invitees.
