Educational institutions across Nagaland observed the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2025 on August 9, highlighting the importance of cultural preservation, traditional knowledge, and indigenous rights through a series of events and discussions.
KROS College, Kohima
KROS College, Kohima, commemorated the day under the theme “TAPROOT”, aligned with the UN’s focus on “Indigenous Knowledge and AI: Defending Rights.” The event was held at Zhüdougei, a site of historical significance where warriors once rested.
Special guest Kuvelu Tetseo, renowned folk singer and Cultural Ambassador, urged students and faculty to preserve indigenous culture through folk songs. Sharing her journey from Lady Shri Ram College to global stages across 20+ countries, she emphasized the role of music in sustaining cultural memory. “Every culture holds a song worth singing and every people a story worth hearing,” she said.
In a symbolic gesture, she kindled the Indigenous fire to inspire the KROS community to uphold their heritage. The Lidi Krou Society facilitated hands-on sessions on weaving, rice pounding, and bamboo carving, with students notably learning to carve the traditional Dzükrie weaving tool.
Nagaland University
Nagaland University’s Tribal Research Centre hosted a webinar titled “The Indigenous Issue and Identity: Peninsular India versus the Northeast.” The session featured Dr. Walter Fernandes, Director of North Eastern Social Research Centre (NESRC), Guwahati, and drew over 100 participants.
Dr. Fernandes explored the varied interpretations of indigeneity, contrasting Peninsular India’s mythic origins and sacred landscapes with the Northeast’s emphasis on customary law and autonomy. He noted growing tribal competition and called for collective leadership rooted in justice and reconciliation. The webinar was chaired by Prof. Toshimenla Jamir, Head of Sociology and Director of the Tribal Research Centre, with Dr. Srikanth Yamsani delivering the vote of thanks.
Sao Chang College (SCC), Tuensang
Sao Chang College, Tuensang, in collaboration with its Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), held a commemorative programme at its Multipurpose Hall. Guest speaker Arenla, principal of Eklavya Model Residential School, Tuensang, reflected on the privilege of Nagas living on ancestral land, unlike many displaced indigenous communities.
She stressed the importance of preserving sustainable practices and living in harmony with nature amid growing environmental degradation. The event featured a folk fusion performance by 3rd Semester students and was chaired by Assistant Professor Hotoni Yeptho.
Yanglikumla Sangtam delivered the welcome address, while Vethono Medeo proposed the vote of thanks.