Bailey Baptist College (BBC), Wokha on Thursday launched a foundation course in music, marking a step towards promoting music education and professional training among students.
The college has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Milestone Music School, Dimapur, affiliated with Trinity College London. Through this collaboration, students will receive professional training, appear for examinations, and be awarded recognised certificates.
BBC has also procured instruments including guitar, drums and keyboard, and is set to begin its first batch this year, with expectations of good enrolment.
The programme was attended by chairman of Lotha Hoho, Er. Mhondamo Ovung, and dedicated by Rev. Abemo Jungio, pastor of Wokha Town Baptist Church. Delivering the welcome address, acting principal Penthungo Lotha said the course was introduced in response to the growing need for music literacy, as hymn books now include staff notation. He added that the initiative would provide a foundation for students and support those aspiring to pursue music professionally.
Speaking on the occasion, Mhondamo Ovung emphasised the need to strengthen community identity and promote education within the district. He noted that despite having adequate infrastructure and faculty, enrolment in local colleges remains low, and urged parents and students to prioritise education within Wokha.
He also stressed the importance of preserving local language and identity, while appreciating the introduction of the course as a positive step for the growth of music and arts in the community. The programme featured a musical presentation by Dr. Yanpothung Ezung. Dr. Apeni Lotha, retired director of higher education and president of the governing body, in her appreciation note encouraged students to take pride in music and develop their talents, adding that the course would help identify and nurture potential.
(Correspondent)
