Kohima, March 20 (MExN): A one-day interactive workshop on the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) with State and District Nodal Officers from Nagaland and neighbouring states was held at Hotel Vivor, Kohima on March 20. The programme was organised by the Ministry of Education, Department of School Education and Literacy.
Commissioner and Secretary, School Education, Kevileno Angami, said "the NMMSS aims to address educational challenges in North East states through collaboration and shared learning." She highlighted that initiatives such as the Right to Education, National Education Policy, Samagra Shiksha and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan ensure free and compulsory education up to age 14.
She noted that some states continue to face high dropout rates due to financial constraints and lack of facilities, and said scholarships like NMMSS can help address these issues. She urged officers to guide students, spread awareness and assist in applications.
Director SCERT, Kevirale-u Kerhuo, said Nagaland has been allotted 180 scholarships across 17 districts. She said the examination consists of the Mental Ability Test (MAT) and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), with qualifying marks set at 40 percent, and 32 percent for SC/ST candidates.
Director School Education, Raszouseyie Veyie, highlighted that five major scholarship schemes and three centrally sponsored schemes are being implemented in the state.
Economic Advisor, DoSE&L, Ministry of Education, A Srija, in her welcome address said "the workshop was organised to discuss the National Education Policy and the Merit Scholarship Scheme." She explained that the scholarship began in 2008 to support students who drop out after Class 8 due to financial constraints.
She said the scheme has improved through the use of technology and the National Scholarship Portal, ensuring proper verification of beneficiaries. She added that workshops are conducted to train district nodal officers to guide students.
Srija noted that fewer students in Nagaland are registering despite 180 slots and urged officials to make efforts to bring economically disadvantaged children back into the system. She also called for continued support to students preparing for MAT and SAT.
The session included presentations on NMMSS implementation through the NSP portal, a question-and-answer session, sensitisation videos and interactions with district officials.
