DIMAPUR: The INTACH Nagaland Chapter, in collaboration with the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC), Ministry of Culture, conducted an Endangered Craft Workshop on pottery on October 7, bringing together 97 students from eight schools to learn and experience a traditional craft facing the threat of extinction.
The participating schools included Charis High Academy, The Maple Tree School, Ram Janaki Higher Secondary School, Christian Higher Secondary School, Little Star Higher Secondary School, Bethesda Higher Secondary School, Amazing School and Eklavya Model Residential School.
The workshop offered students a unique hands-on learning experience under the guidance of two skilled artisans from Changki village, once renowned for its earthen pottery tradition. The artisans demonstrated traditional pottery-making techniques and shared knowledge passed down through generations. Students actively participated in crafting pottery items while gaining insight into the cultural and historical significance of the age-old craft.
A key highlight of the programme was an interactive session by Prof. Jungmayangla Longkumer of the Department of Agricultural Extension Education, Nagaland University, Medziphema. Having extensively documented the Changki pottery tradition, she spoke about the history, cultural heritage and community importance of the craft, helping students better understand its role beyond its practical use.
Organisers said the initiative aimed to create awareness among the younger generation about the importance of preserving endangered traditional crafts, along with the communities and knowledge systems associated with them.
The workshop also served as a platform for cultural exchange and learning among students from different schools. At the conclusion of the programme, NEZCC deputy director, Oliver T. Pongen distributed participation certificates to all students.
Additionally, the three best pottery creations from the workshop have been selected for submission to INTACH HECS, New Delhi. The selected works will be included in the national archive and their creators will receive special certificates.
