Nagaland CM hopes KPA will become ‘centre of excellence’

Morung Express News 
Zunheboto | October 29

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday expressed hope that the Khelhoshe Polytechnic Atoizu (KPA) would become a ‘centre of excellence’ now that it has been accredited by the National Board of Accreditation. 

Addressing the 50th Anniversary of the first polytechnic in the state on October 29, Rio stated that he was ‘happy to give permission’ to establish a full-fledged engineering college. However, the approval would have to come from Delhi and for that, it has to be a combined effort.

The Chief Minister said that when KPA was first established, there were only about 37 students but there has been a remarkable increase in the number of students, and that the college has more than 200 students at present. Attributing the growth to the dedication of the faculty, the land donors and the community, Rio added that the KPA was not only for Zunheboto district but for the entire citizenry of Nagaland. He maintained that the government is trying its best for the well-being of the institution and expressed hope that the KPA would become a centre of excellence.

He also hoped that the KPA would produce a lot of technicians who can not only serve for themselves but also make Nagaland a ‘technical state.’

During the event which was hosted by Advisor for Technical Education & Election Medo Yhokha, Rio also unveiled the anniversary stone following which it was Pastor, ATBC (Aizuto) Vitoka Zhimomi pronounced the dedicatory prayer.

Atoizu MLA Er Picto Shohe also addressed the gathering and lauded all the Sümi legislators and civil society organizations, the Minister and Advisor Technical Education, officers and staffs technical education, land donors and the community for the consistent effort rendered towards the growth of KPA. He requested the Chief Minister to expedite the upgradation of KPA to a full-fledged engineering college.

Shohe also recounted his time at the KPA in 1974 and mentioned that the Polytechnic has produced many prominent officers over time; further urging the students and faculty to uphold the legacy of the college.

The KPA Teachers' Association meanwhile submitted a representation to the Chief Minister underscoring their grievances. Among others, the association demanded immediate attention on the deplorable condition of the Coco road which connects the institution to the State Capital via Wokha; the need for proper internet connectivity, banking facilities, and guest house as well as the appalling conditions of the staff quarters.