Correspondent
KOHIMA, OCT 21 (NPN): Thejatsü-Ü Rutsa of Living Tree School, Kohima on Wednesday was crowned the champion of the 11th Nagaland Spelling Bee Championship 2026 held at the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) halls, Kohima.
Organised by The Fountain Club, Kohima, in collaboration with SCERT and its partners, The Morung Express, Excellogics and Mirrorless Films, the championship, themed “The Learning Edge,” brought together students from Classes VI to IX to test their spelling skills, vocabulary and command of the English language.
Thejatsü-Ü Rutsa (Speller No. 56) secured the title and received a cash prize of Rs. 80,000. Thejaneizo Linyü of Khedi Baptist Higher Secondary School, Kohima, finished second and won Rs. 60,000, while Carolene Lotha of Christian Higher Secondary School, Dimapur, placed third and received Rs. 40,000.
Lineno Kaimo of St. Paul School, Phesama, Kohima, secured fourth place and was awarded Rs. 20,000.
The quarter-finalists, Shuzini Catherine Chario of Model Higher Secondary School, Kohima; Kellika and Thanggunhao Thomsong of Grace Academy, Dimapur; and Mharoni Yanthan of Stella Higher Secondary School, Kohima, received Rs. 10,000 each.
In the special award category, Seneino Laura, a Class VI student of St. Paul School, Phesama, was named Young Speller, while Thejasevono Meyase, a Class VI student of PM SHRI GMS, New Ministers’ Hill, received the Promising Speller Award. Both awardees received Rs. 10,000 each.
Speaking at the closing programme, SCERT vice-principal Daniel Thong lauded the organisers and participants, noting that the championship had improved with every edition. He also commended the successful conduct of the event. The programme was compered by Alila Chang, while The Fountain Club chairman Metsisieto Zhasa delivered the vote of thanks. Prizes were distributed by SCERT joint director Moalong Imti.
The panel of pronouncers included Dr. Sekholü Tetseo, Dr. Aneile Puro, Vipenu Noswe, Asano Zashumo and Emma Thonger. Judges for the competition were Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Kekhrieneinuo Sekhose, Priskali H. Sumi and B. Sonian Jemphang.
Keduwe-u Tsuhah served as chief coordinator, while Vipopal Kintso, Rokovikho Chale and Neizokhotuo Belho constituted the jury board.