Development cannot be imported: CAN Prez

NEISSR holds farewell for MSW, BSW students

DIMAPUR, MAY 3 (MExN): The North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) organised a farewell programme for its MSW and BSW students at BAM Hall under the theme ‘Rewind and Relive.’

Addressing the programme as chief guest, Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN) President Jonas Yanthan said that true development is not merely the result of financial investment but a process of internal human transformation. He stressed the importance of self-reliance, ethical integrity, and community responsibility, cautioning against dependency on external resources.

He stated that sustainable development must arise from within communities through culture, discipline, and hard work, and “cannot simply be imported.” Reflecting on the failure of many development initiatives, he pointed to the absence of adequate social groundwork, including insufficient understanding of local contexts, beliefs, and community dynamics. He urged social work professionals to prioritise human relationships and grassroots engagement over purely technical or financial approaches.

In his address, Principal Dr Fr C P Anto encouraged the outgoing students to carry forward the values of compassion, justice, and service. He said that nearly 80% of students have already secured placements before completion of their course and called on the graduates to become agents of peace and advocates for the marginalised.

Speaking on behalf of the outgoing batch, Th Jacob Khongsai (MSW IV) and Bovitoli Zhimo (BSW IV) expressed gratitude to the NEISSR community for shaping them into professional social workers capable of contributing to community development.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks followed by a photo session and refreshments.

The programme included an invocation by Mhasileto Phinyo (MSW II), welcome address by Atheli G Awomi (MSW II), moderation by Lenpisangmiu (MSW II) and Lijingla (BSW IV), and vote of thanks by Melda (BSW IV).