Deputy Commissioner of Tuensang, L. Jamithung Lotha inaugurated the Urban Sochum Centre (USC) to impart various traditional handicraft skills and transmit cultural knowledge, on November 24 at Sao Chang College (SCGC), Tuensang.
A press release from SCGC media cell coordinator, M. Shiu stated that the DC in his speech called the Sochum, an indigenous centre of learning — an important institution for young people, both girls and boys, to learn various practical skills in different indigenous handicraft activities.
He pointed out that in modern society, many young people do not even know how to read and speak in their own dialects. He thus stated that the USC could be a platform where young people could learn rich cultural values and activities.
S. Chubasangla Chang, former principal of SCGC who had initiated the introduction of USC in the college said that students needed to be given opportunities for developing their innate talents through various activities. She said students enrolled in the centre will be able to acquire various handicraft skills as well as general knowledge since USC will be providing coaching classes for students aspiring for various competitive exams.
O. Akhum, USC consultant Tuensang spoke on the various programs and activities that are carried out adding that students involved would be able to see the changes in one’s life.
Komayangbou, Tuensang village Chongpho khel council chairman, in his short speech encouraged the students, teaching faculty and ministerial staff of the college to make optimal use of the USC.
The inauguration program was organized by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of SCGC, Tuensang. It was chaired by Dr. Kenilo Kath, boys’ hostel warden with a welcome note said by Dr. Iris Odyuo, member IQAC. Mulai T., cultural secretary of Sao Chang College students union and friends presented a folk song. Vote of thanks was proposed by Sao Chang College Teachers Association general secretary, M. Shiu and benediction was offered by Sangkam, head goanbura, Tuensang Village Chongpho khel.
The skill of making handicrafts was demonstrated by Suje of Nokhu village (spear making) and Mongko of Tuensang village (basket weaving).