Nagaland: DBC, OTC confer degrees to 144 graduates

Two theological institutions in Nagaland —Discipleship Bible College (DBC), Dimapur, and Oriental Theological College (OTC), Yangli—held their convocation and commencement ceremonies this week, conferring degrees and diplomas to a total of 144 graduates.
At DBC Dimapur, the 43rd Convocation was held on Friday where 112 students graduated across programmes—37 from Bachelor of Theology (B.Th), 63 from Master of Divinity (M.Div), 8 from M.Div (Distance Education) and 4 from Doctor of Ministry (D.Min).
Alongside the conferring of degrees, 18 awards and prizes were presented in recognition of excellence in academics, leadership, ministry and character.
Delivering the convocation message, NBCC general secretary, Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, emphasized that graduation marks not the end of an academic journey but the beginning of greater responsibility in life and ministry.
Speaking on the theme “When No One is Watching”, he urged graduates to cultivate integrity, faithfulness and discipline in their private lives, reminding them that true character is revealed in unseen moments.
He encouraged them to remain committed to their calling, noting that while external supervision may end, their actions are always seen by God.
He expressed gratitude to faculty, staff, parents and sponsors for their dedication and sacrifices, and reminded graduates that their certificates symbolize both academic achievement and a divine calling to serve with humility and accountability.
Prestigious awards conferred included the Dr. Edward Winter Clark Discipleship Award, Rev. I. Longri Ao Peace Award, Rev. A. Rikrum Scripture Award, Rev. J. Chen Ao Servant-Leadership Award, Rev. R. Wameren Christian Ministry Award, Rev. Lano Longchar Evangelism Award, J. N. Aier Music Award, Dr. S. Impang Jamir Best Citizen Award, Rev. Dr. T. Alemmeren Mission Award and the Dignity of Labour Award. Academic excellence was also recognized through book prizes across departments including Old Testament, New Testament, Theology and Ethics, Christian Ministry, History of Christianity, Religion and Society, and Mission.
The programme was presided over by Associate Professor Esther Jamir, invocation by Dr. Narola Walling, welcome address by Principal Bendangjungshi, and a special song by the DBC choir. Vote of thanks was proposed by Associate Professor Shanthungo Ezung.
Meanwhile, Oriental Theological College, Yangli, celebrated its commencement ceremony on April 16 at Centre Baptist Church, Mission Centre, Yangli, where 32 students graduated—the highest number in the college’s history.
The ceremony, attended by families, faculty, board members, pastors and staff, was marked by joy and nostalgia as graduates in gowns and caps took their final walk as students.
The programme was led by Assistant Professor Ghovukhu Aye V, with invocation by pastor Rupa of Phir Ahir Baptist Church.
Welcome address was delivered by Imkongsenla, Board of Directors, OTC, while scripture readings were presented by Assistant Professors Samuel and Thsarola. A special song, Here I am Lord, was performed by B.Th. II class.
Rev. Imti, Executive Secretary, USBLA, released the Annual Magazine and Journal, while the commencement address was delivered by Rev. Dr. Chingmak, Secretary, Eleutheros Christian Society. Drawing from Acts 7:9–10 and Genesis 39:2–4, he urged graduates to celebrate life beyond academics, to seek God wholeheartedly, stand for truth and remain willing to serve others.
He dedicated the graduates’ lives with a prayer of blessing.
Diplomas were conferred by Board chairman T. Kirithong Sangtam, with tassels moved by principal Dr. C. Chemtingla Sangtam, marking the graduates’ transition to alumni. Awards were presented by board members. Graduate representative Lichumla shared reflections on resilience, mentorship and community life, while the graduating class presented a song of commitment.
The ceremony concluded with prayer by C. Nancy Sangtam, Christian Education Secretary, USBLA, wrapping up a memorable year for the OTC community.