‘Mental well-being is a shared responsibility’

SCTE Kohima urges compassion and timely intervention

Kohima, September 21 (MExN): The State College of Teacher Education (SCTE), Kohima, organised a mental health awareness programme on September 18 in an effort to address growing concerns surrounding psychological well-being, the institution said in a press release.

The initiative focused on raising awareness about mental wellness, practical stress management, and the vital role of community support for individuals undergoing emotional distress.

The session was chaired by Dr Thronlem Jorlim Konyak, while Dr Viketoulie Pienyu, Retired Senior Medical Officer at the State Mental Health Institute, was the resource person.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Pienyu delved into the mechanisms of stress and detailed the detrimental effects that prolonged psychological pressure can exert on overall well-being. He stressed the necessity of identifying root causes of stress and depression rather than solely addressing overt symptoms, while also sharing pragmatic strategies for everyday stress reduction and emotional stability.

A central theme of the presentation was fostering empathy toward individuals in distress. Dr Pienyu called for responses rooted in compassion, patience, and actionable assistance, highlighting that safeguarding mental well-being is a shared communal responsibility. He pointed out that educators, families, and society at large play a crucial role in building safe spaces where individuals feel empowered to seek help without fear of stigma.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr Rokuonuo Usou. Attendees noted that the event offered valuable insights into identifying early indicators of emotional distress, reinforcing the need for empathy and timely intervention across the academic community.

‘Invest in Peace’ 
The SCERT-Kohima observed International Peace Day on September 21 under the theme “Invest in Peace - For Everyone, Everywhere, Everyday,” bringing together faculty and student-teachers to reflect on the collective responsibility of fostering harmony in society.

The programme was led by Megosielie Khate, Assistant Professor, SCTE-K. Delivering the welcome address, Dr T Alemla Longkumer, Principal of SCTE-K, greeted the gathering and highlighted the vital role educators play as ambassadors of peace in classrooms and communities alike.

A student perspective was shared by Ruovinuo Usou, a third-semester student-teacher, who spoke on “My Understanding of Peace,” emphasising empathy and constructive dialogue among the youth.
Rev T Karang Maram, former Director of Peace & Development at the Manipur Baptist Convention, graced the occasion as the resource person.

In his keynote address, Rev Maram underscored that peace is not an instantaneous achievement or merely a passive state, but an ongoing process that demands continuous effort, mutual respect, and active commitment. He urged the gathering to move beyond the narrow concept of “negative peace,” which merely denotes the absence of overt conflict or violence, and instead make “positive peace” the true target.

Positive peace, he noted, is rooted in justice, equity, social harmony, and the proactive resolution of underlying grievances. He emphasised that genuine investment in peace begins at the personal and community levels, particularly through transformative education.

Following the main address, Jonjbemo, a third-semester student-teacher, led the assembly in taking a solemn peace pledge, reaffirming their collective commitment to non-violence and mutual coexistence.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Medoneinuo Rupreo, Assistant Professor, SCTE-K.