The Jo Foundation Inclusive School (JFIS) organised a musical performance of The Sound of Music at the RCEMPA Hall, Kohima on August 1 with the aim of promoting inclusion and raising funds for the construction of a permanent school building.
The evening began with a blessing from pastor of City Church Kohima, Rev Dr. Kedo Peseyie, followed by a presentation titled “The Heart Behind the Musical” by Dr. Asunu Thong. In her address, she emphasised that the event was more than a musical—it was a celebration of hope, inclusion, perseverance and the transformative power of love in the lives of children.
Dr. Thong shared personal memories of watching “The Sound of Music” with her grandmother, noting how the film’s universal themes of kindness, courage and music transcended language barriers. She reflected on how these values later inspired the founding of Jo Foundation Inclusive School in 2010, beginning with just eight students, including children with special needs.
Since its inception, the school has grown steadily in both numbers and purpose. In 2022, JFIS celebrated a milestone when its first batch of students successfully completed their Class 10 examinations. Dr. Thong highlighted that the school continues to dream of a permanent campus designed to meet diverse learning needs, with accessible classrooms, therapy spaces and an environment where inclusion is lived daily.
The musical fundraiser was dedicated to supporting this vision, with part of the proceeds also directed to communities in Mon district. “We chose The Sound of Music because its message mirrors our own,” Dr. Thong said, adding that the performance symbolised courage, healing, compassion and hope.
In her concluding remarks, she expressed gratitude to Almighty God and to society for standing with the school’s vision. JFIS extended thanks to Rev. Dr. Kedo Peseyie, The King Chilli team, media partners including Highland Dawn Media and Doordarshan Kohima, photographer Kekhrie, Decibel, Affa Sound, RCEMPA sound engineers, parents, guardians, teachers and all well-wishers who contributed to the success of the event.
The evening’s performance not only entertained but also reinforced the spirit of inclusion and unity, bringing the community together to support the dreams of children and the mission of Jo Foundation Inclusive School.
