DIMAPUR: Various institutions across Nagaland commemorated the International Day of Peace 2026 on September 21, under the global theme “Invest in Peace- For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.”
At North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) and Peace Channel, principal and director Fr. Dr. C.P. Anto emphasised that sustainable peace must be nurtured through education, dialogue, human dignity and responsible citizenship. He said education must equip individuals to respect diversity, manage disagreements constructively and contribute to peaceful families and communities. Highlighting NEISSR’s Peace and Conflict Transformation Studies under Nagaland University, he proposed systematic introduction of peace education at the school level to nurture socially responsible citizens.
At St. Joseph University (SJU), Dimapur, the Department of Political Science observed the day with a programme chaired by Witadiu Mariam. Dr. Somingam Mawon, Associate Professor, delivered the theme address, stressing that peace was not merely the absence of war but a continuous public responsibility requiring investment in dialogue, justice and human rights. He referenced Johan Galtung’s concepts of Negative Peace and Positive Peace, noting that much of Northeast India remains trapped in negative peace. A painting competition on the theme was also held, with Moasenla (UG III Sem, Political Science) and Diethovi (UG III Sem, Sociology) declared winners.
At State College of Teacher Education (SCTE), Kohima, a Mental Health Awareness Programme was organised on September 18, followed by observance of the International Day of Peace on September 21. Resource person Rev. T. Karang Maram, former director, Peace & Development, Manipur Baptist Convention, underscored that peace was not passive but an ongoing process rooted in justice, equity and social harmony.
He urged the gathering to move beyond “negative peace” and strive for “positive peace” through transformative education and community commitment.
Across institutions, the observances highlighted the importance of investing in peace education, dialogue and youth empowerment as essential pathways to building lasting peace in society.