Kicks off 150th education anniversary with litchi tree seeds and scholarship scheme
Dimapur, June 27 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) organised a prelude programme at Molungyimsen village on June 26 to commemorate the “Sesquicentennial of Formal Education in Naga Hills”, scheduled to be celebrated in 2028, where formal education was begun by American missionary Mary Mead Clark.
In a symbolic gesture themed “Conserving Heritage”, fruits from a 148-year-old Litchi tree planted by Reverend Dr Clark were plucked and seeds poly-bagged for saplings, which the NSF said would be distributed to every Naga village across all Naga areas within the next two years ahead of the 150th anniversary, stated a press release received here.
On the occasion, the NSF announced its “Powered 60” educational project to sponsor civil service aspirants from economically underprivileged backgrounds. “Under this project, one aspirant from economically underprivileged background from each of the assembly constituencies in Nagaland will be selected for a one-year UPSC Coaching and Mentorship Programme,” NSF President Mteisuding said.
Addressing the gathering, NSF leaders expressed gratitude to the pioneers who brought the gospel and education to the Naga people, calling it “an appropriate time for Naga people to thank God and American missionaries for the love and selfless sacrifice made for us.”
The NSF leaders also appealed to the Naga people to broaden their outlook and contribute to strengthening Naga unity, asserting that the community “cannot afford to remain divided any longer.”
The NSF further disclosed that the Sesquicentennial celebration in 2028 would comprise thanksgiving events to God, the American people, and pioneering Naga Christians across all Naga areas throughout the year.
The programme was addressed by NSF President Mteisuding, SQC of Formal Education in Naga Hills Planning Committee Convenor K Temjen Jamir, SQC Planning Committee Member Medo Yhokha, and SDHO Tuli Imchalemla. It was presided over by AKM Education Secretary Imlikokba Kichu.
Following the programme, the NSF and AKM team visited Molungkimong village, where they paid tributes at sacred sites associated with the baptism of the first Naga Christians and the stay and ministry of Reverend Dr Clark. The team also held a prayer fellowship with church leaders and village council members of Molungkimong village.
