Salhoutuonuo calls for visionary education at BCK foundation day

Baptist College Kohima (BCK) celebrated its Foundation Day on Saturday under the theme “Striving Towards Excellence,” marking over four decades of academic and spiritual service since its establishment in 1982 by the Angami Baptist Church Council.
Minister for Women Resource Development and Horticulture, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, who graced the occasion as guest of honour, congratulated the college community for its enduring commitment to quality education rooted in Christian values. She attributed the institution’s progress to the prayers and support of believers and churches, and lauded its reputation for academic rigour and holistic development.
Salhoutuonuo emphasized that education today must transcend mere acquisition of degrees. “It is about shaping minds, igniting curiosity, and preparing individuals to face the challenges of the real world with courage and competence,” she stated.
In view of rapid technological, environmental, and cultural changes, Kruse said institutions like Baptist College play a critical role in shaping future leaders. She encouraged students to challenge outdated norms, embrace innovation, and act as changemakers. “Your ideas, skills, and innovations will determine the direction of our society,” she added.
Highlighting the importance of global awareness, Kruse urged students to think and act as global citizens while remaining rooted in local realities. She also spoke on the growing relevance of technology and artificial intelligence, calling on both students and educators to adapt and harness digital tools effectively.
Recognizing Baptist College as one of the oldest institutions in the state, Kruse encouraged the management to pursue autonomous status, which would allow greater flexibility in academic planning, syllabus design, and examination schedules. She stressed the need to balance traditional academic learning with professional and career-oriented courses, especially in view of rising educated unemployment in the state.
She called on institutions to take responsibility in introducing skill-based programmes that equip students for employment and career advancement. “The college needs a broader vision, broader ambition, and space,” she said, noting the potential of the Sechu campus to support future expansion. Kruse expressed hope that Baptist College would one day attain the status of a deemed university.
Sharing reflections from the college’s formative years, retired academic Dr. Kevileno Sakhrie and former NBSE chairman Asano Sekhose, both from the first batch, recounted their experiences and challenges during the early phase of the institution.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Tsenbeni Kennao. Rev. Savito Nagi, president of ABCC, led the candle lighting and greetings, while Rev. Dr. Rachülie Vihienuo, executive director of ABCC, offered the prayer of blessing. Vipralhou Kesiezie, chairman of the governing body, delivered the welcome address.