Winners and participants of various competitions during the conclusion of the 7th National Social Work Week at the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Peace Centre, Chümoukedima.
CHÜMOUKEDIMA, AUGUST 23 (MExN): The North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Peace Centre, Chümoukedima, observed the 7th National Social Work Week from August 15 to 22 under the theme “Social Work: Strengthening Minds, Strengthening Families.”
The week-long observance featured academic, creative, awareness and digital activities involving students, faculty members and student bodies, focusing on mental health, family relationships, HIV-related stigma, gender concerns, digital behaviour and social inclusion.
The observance began on August 15 with the 80th Independence Day celebration organised by the Students Council for Social Change (SCSC) and National Service Scheme (NSS), NEISSR. The programme focused on youth power, responsible citizenship, peace and nation-building.
In his Independence Day message, Dr Fr. C. P. Anto, Principal, NEISSR, called on young people to become “professionals with competence, citizens with conscience and leaders with compassion.” He also spoke on the role of social workers and peacebuilders in addressing poverty, discrimination, violence, substance abuse, exploitation and exclusion, while preserving the cultural heritage of the Northeast and protecting the environment.
An address on “Youth Power for a Developed India” was delivered by Daislinung Sebastian Kamsuan, Assistant Professor, NEISSR, who encouraged young people to translate freedom into progress through education, skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, technology, employment and social responsibility.
On August 17 and 18, BSW V conducted an Instagram Reel Making Activity on mental health, using short-form digital content to promote awareness, empathy, emotional well-being and responsible help-seeking.
The Red Ribbon Club and NSS Unit, NEISSR, organised a poster-making competition on August 19 on the theme “End the Stigma: HIV Does Not Define a Person.” Lomathong K of BSW V secured first position, followed by Suliri C. Sangtam of BSW V and Langoi of BSW I in second and third positions respectively.
An interactive discussion titled “The Digital Divide in the Living Room” was held by BSW V on August 20, examining the impact of smartphones, social media and digital entertainment on communication and emotional interaction within families. The discussion also covered active listening, emotional presence, quality family time and responsible technology use.
On August 21, the Media Club conducted a digital poster campaign carrying the message “There is no shame in seeking mental health support – Talk It Out.” The posters were circulated through Instagram Stories, WhatsApp Status and Facebook Stories for 24 hours to extend the campaign beyond the campus.
The concluding activities on August 22 included debate and essay writing competitions organised by SCSC, the Red Ribbon Club and NSS. The debate for BSW students, held on “A Strong Mind Is the Foundation of a Strong Family,” saw Melda of BSW V adjudged Best Debater – For the Motion, while Khekavi Zhimo of BSW V was named Best Debater – Against the Motion. The winning team comprised Melda, Kelhoulezo William Theünuo, Atuo Moses Mepfhuo and Lomi Sema.
The essay competition for MSW students focused on “Women and the Invisible Emotional Burden of Family Life.” Chiichinu of MSW III secured first prize, followed by Supou of MSW I and Khruzotalu Lohe of MSW I in second and third positions.
The overall prizes for the competitions were sponsored by the Red Ribbon Club and NSS Unit, NEISSR.
