Governor La Ganesan has called for imparting professional education to youth within the state to stem the flow of substantial resources outside. Addressing the 8th Graduation Day ceremony of the North East Institute of Social Science and Research (NEISSR) here on Friday, Ganesan expressed concern over the substantial resources flowing out of Nagaland due to Naga youth pursuing quality professional education outside the state and overseas. He underscored the need for establishing professional education institutions within the state.
He Ganesan acknowledged the challenges faced by students in accessing specialised courses within the state, compelling them to explore opportunities beyond the state, and even abroad.
He however encouraged them to return to Nagaland after obtaining professional qualifications to contribute to the state’s overall development.
He commended Diocese of Kohima for introducing Master in Social Work (MSW) in Dimapur in 2014, underscoring its role in nurturing socially-conscious individuals, emphasising the critical role of the course in addressing complex societal challenges, combating discrimination, and aiding marginalised populations.
The governor reminded the graduating students that while challenges might arise, their education would serve as guiding lights. He urged them to approach their future responsibilities with responsibility, compassion, and determination to make the world a better place.
He extended his appreciation to the faculty for their dedication in inspiring young minds, highlighting their instrumental role in shaping future leaders, while expressing gratitude to the management and governing board for their tireless efforts in steering the institution. Underscoring the role of educational institutions in moulding future leaders, he commended NEISSR for being the first and only institution in Nagaland to offer the MSW programme.
He maintained that NEISSR’s curriculum equipped students with knowledge, values, beliefs, and skills necessary for effective social work, enabling them to drive positive change and development. He also lauded Peace Channel-NEISSR for promoting interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange in Dimapur, fostering an environment of understanding and unity among people of diverse faiths, traditions, cultures, and ethnic identities.
As future leaders, he stressed that students should be taught to cultivate the knack for forward-thinking, decision making, peace building and effective communication skills, expressing his delight that NEISSR was one of the few institutions in the country integrating youth leadership development in peace building as part of social work programme. Ganesan congratulated the graduates and wished them success in their future endeavours, calling for continued efforts towards education, enlightenment, and empowerment for a stronger and more prosperous nation.
Meanwhile, delivering his address as guest of honour, state information commissioner Nosazol Charles underscored the pivotal role of truth and honesty in individual and social life. He urged the graduates to embrace self-improvement, integrity, and positive outlook towards others.
He emphasised the significance of distinguishing truth from falsehood in all aspects of life, highlighting the profound impact that veracity and transparency can have on personal growth and societal progress.
He lauded NEISSR for its commitment to providing quality education, while commending the graduates for attaining academic qualifications that would serve as foundations for their future endeavours.
He noted that the graduates had now unlocked new chapter in their lives, one filled with practical realities and abundant opportunities for success, while highlighting the inherent challenges and unpredictability of life, urging the graduates to confront adversities with resilience and strategic decision making.
He urged the graduates to consider their youth and dynamism as powerful assets, urging them to navigate life’s complexities with their new qualifications. He expressed confidence in their ability to triumph over life’s trials and tribulations, provided they remained committed to honesty, truthfulness, and respectful towards others.
In his brief speech, Bishop of Kohima Rev Dr James Thoppil stated that the establishment of MSW College was aimed to fulfil needs in Nagaland.
He stressed fostering and promoting peace in Nagaland, highlighting the unique Peace and Conflict Transformation Studies specialization offered by the college.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Haichuyamagh and Lanutemsu, invocation by parish priest and principal St Joseph Higher Secondary Chümoukedima, Rev Father Antony Dukru Rozu, and welcome address was delivered by NEISSR principal Rev RCP Anto. Altogether 48 students graduated from the college.