Dignitaries along with NBSE Toppers during the felicitation programme held at the Golden Jubilee Hall, Cathedral Campus, Kohima on May 1.
Kohima, May 1 (MExN): The Commission for Education, Diocese of Kohima (CEDOK) on Friday felicitated Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) toppers from Catholic schools, along with institutions achieving 100 per cent pass results, at a programme held at the Golden Jubilee Hall, Cathedral Campus, Kohima on May 1.
A total of 36 rank holders — 24 from the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) and 12 from the Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate (HSSLC) examinations — were honoured on the occasion. Thirteen schools, including 11 at the HSLC level and two at the HSSLC level, were also recognised for achieving 100 per cent results.
Marking a significant milestone, Catholic schools recorded zero dropout at the HSLC level for the second consecutive year, with all enrolled students appearing for the board examinations and securing an overall pass percentage of 91.3 per cent.
The toppers were presented certificates, mementos and cash awards. CEDOK also offered a special scholarship to Andrew Billung for his perseverance in supporting his family and education while securing the 20th rank in the HSLC examination.
Nagaland Legislative Assembly member from Kohima Town constituency, Dr Tseilhoutuo Ato Rhütso, who attended as the special guest, exhorted students to embrace discipline and perseverance during their formative years.
Sharing his personal journey, he said a few years of dedicated effort could ensure decades of fruitful living. He cautioned HSSLC students about entering a “freedom period”, which, if misused, could prove detrimental, and encouraged them to aspire to become “international citizens” while remaining rooted in values.
He also advised students to focus on understanding fundamental truths that connect knowledge, even if mastering every subject may not be possible. Addressing parents, he said education might seem costly but ignorance is far more expensive, urging them to invest in their children’s future.
Transport Commissioner of Nagaland, Elias T Lotha, who was the guest of honour, said success is a collective outcome of the efforts of teachers and parents. He encouraged students to aim higher, dream bigger and use their talents for the greater good.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Shreya Singh, HSLC third rank holder from Holy Child School, Burma Camp, expressed gratitude to the organisers and shared her journey of success.
The programme featured cultural presentations, including dances, songs and choreographies by students from various Catholic schools in and around Kohima.
The awards were presented by dignitaries, including NBSE Secretary and Chairperson (additional charge) Rangumbuing Nsarangbe and Catholic Association of Nagaland president Jonas Yanthan, along with the special guest and guest of honour.
Earlier, Rev Fr Dr Jacob Charalel, Secretary, CEDOK, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the Catholic Church’s continued commitment to education across Nagaland through its network of schools.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Rev Fr Renthungo Victor, Joint Secretary, CEDOK and Principal of Holy Cross Higher Secondary School, Dimapur.
