DIMAPUR: Lions Club of Kohima organised the Lions International Peace Poster Contest 2026 27 on October 3 at Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School, Kohima, under the theme “Harmony in Humanity.”
Bejava Thonglü, Class 6 student of Little Flower School, emerged as the winner, bagging a cash prize of Rs. 10,000 and a citation. Sarah Lhoungu, Class 8 student of G. Rio School, secured second position with an award of Rs. 5,000, while Sophia Gurung, Class 6 student of Northfield School, claimed third place with Rs. 2,000 and citations.
Chief guest Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, MLA, said peace was not merely the absence of war but a necessity in daily life-at schools, in cities and homes. He observed, “Peace is when you feel good and safe to be in the midst of different people,” while appreciating how students from diverse tribes and schools had become friends through the contest. Urging boys to become responsible men and ensure safety of women, Rhutso called upon students to be “engines of peace” and bridges rather than walls. He added, “When two of your friends are not in good terms, don’t side with either, but build that bridge so they talk again.”
Appreciating the artworks, he remarked, “Art and painting are like books. In books, we read from cover to cover. In paintings, just one page explains everything. That is talent.” He urged students to spread the message of peace so that every community-Christian, Hindu or Muslim-lives in harmony.
Addressing the gathering, Er. Tsalitemsu Jamir, president, Lions Club of Kohima, described the contest as a cherished annual tradition of Lions International. He said the entries were “a beautiful prayer in art form and a collective cry for peace at a time when the world is yearning for it more than ever.” He expressed hope that the messages captured in the artworks would reach the global stage. Jamir informed that only one poster will advance to the next level to compete internationally, where the Grand Prize Winner will receive US$5,000 and attend the award ceremony in the USA. He assured the remaining contestants that they were “no less victorious” and lauded their immense talent.
Judge Ruokuoselhou Miachieo explained that posters were assessed on application, composition, and connection to the theme. He emphasised that skill development and balanced composition were crucial, and that even a beautiful painting would not earn points if it failed to relate to the theme. He reminded participants that art is for everyone and reflects personal experience.
More than 40 students aged 11-13 years participated, accompanied by teachers, parents and guardians. Schools included Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School, Assam Rifles Public School, Mezhür Higher Secondary School, Ministers’ Hill Baptist Higher Secondary School, Fernwood School, Dainty Buds School, Loyola Higher Secondary School Jakhama, Kigwema Government Higher Secondary School, G. Rio School, St. Paul School Phesama, Grace Higher Secondary School, Vinyüzo Higher Secondary School, Model Higher Secondary School, Northfield Higher Secondary School, Chandmari Higher Secondary School, Rev. Dr. Neiliezhü Üsou Memorial School, JO Foundation Inclusive School, Little Flower Higher Secondary School, PM SHRI Government High School New Market, Government High School Phezoucha, and Mt. Hermon Higher Secondary School. The contest was chaired by Max Menuse O Marius, Secretary, while Akhrienuo Kire, 2nd vice president, delivered the vote of thanks.
