‘Nagaland Govt schools can match the best’

HSLC & HSSLC Achievers make strong case for govt schools

Chizokho Vero
Kohima | June 22

Sreeniti Mahapatra, a Top 19 achiever in the HSLC Examination 2026 from Government High School (GHS), Yachem in Longleng district, affirmed that “government schools are fully capable of nurturing talented, responsible, and successful individuals.”

“Standing here today as one of the Top 19 achievers is proof that students from government schools can excel and compete with the very best when given the right guidance and opportunities,” Mahapatra said while sharing her experience at the felicitation programme for awardees of the Nagaland Government School Students’ Meritorious Award in Kohima on June 18.

The programme, organised by the Directorate of School Education honoured each top 3 government school students in HSLC 2026, HSSLC (Arts) 2026, HSSLC (Commerce) 2026 and HSSLC (Science) 2026 including 22 government schools for securing 100% pass percentage in the HSLC and HSSLC examination. 

“I am humbled to be recognised as the lone topper from a government school in Nagaland among the HSLC Top 20 achievers this year,” Mahapatra noted, describing it as a testament to the quality of education, teachers’ dedication and the potential of students in government schools.

She expressed hope that her achievement would inspire more students studying in government schools to believe in themselves and strive for excellence.

Mahapatra, whose father is a Mathematics teacher at GHS Yachem, held many people believe success can only be achieved through prestigious private institutions. However, her experience taught her otherwise.

“I chose to study in government schools because I believe that quality education depends not only on facilities but also on determination, hard work, and the guidance of dedicated teachers,” she said.
After completing HSLC, she chose to continue her studies at  Bautung GHSS, Longleng, citing confidence in the institution and its teachers.

Noting that GHS Yachem is located in a rural area, Mahapatra credited her success to the dedication of her teachers, who went beyond regular duties by providing extra guidance, free coaching classes and constant encouragement during HSLC preparation.

Besides, she credited the collective support of the Yachem community, including the Village Council, Students’ Union and other organisations and well-wishers, which greatly benefited students.
“They not only encouraged us but also helped maintain the hostel facilities for HSLC candidates, creating a conducive environment for study,” she said.

‘Talented students, committed teachers’
Meanwhile, Pooja Bharti of PM Shri GHSS, Chümoukedima, who secured Top 7 in the HSSLC Arts stream, said her achievement was the result of support from many people.

“My journey doesn't simply belong to me, rather it included my teachers, parents, friends, my well-wishers and also my critics. Everyone shaped me in one or the other way,” she said.

Bharti observed that government schools are often underestimated, with many assuming success belongs only to students from certain institutions. 

“Government schools have talented students, committed teachers and countless dreams waiting to shine,” she asserted, adding that a school does not define a student’s potential; rather, dedication, discipline, hard work and proper guidance do.

“I stand here today as a small example that opportunities and success are not limited by where we study. With determination and proper guidance, students from every school can achieve great things and make our society proud,” she maintained.

Reflecting on her journey, Bharti described the achievement as only the beginning, noting that the lessons of consistency, perseverance, patience and determination would continue to guide her in facing future responsibilities, challenges and opportunities.

Urging students to use education for the greater good, she added: “Let us not use education only for our personal success but also to bring positive change around us.”

Teachers foundation of achievement
Sharing his experience, Moaakum T Longkumer, Top 10 in the HSSLC Science stream from PM Shri Mayangnokcha GHSS, said teachers were the foundation of his achievement.

“I must acknowledge the core pillars of this achievement, that is our teachers,” he held. “They did not merely teach but also mentored, challenged and shaped my perspective.”

Longkumer informed that he joined the school in Class XI and initially felt anxious, but the supportive environment and companionship of friends soon helped him settle in.

“My academic journey was fruitful not because it was flawless, but because of the unwavering support of our teachers,” he shared, recalling how teachers went beyond their duties to provide extra guidance to struggling students.

He also credited the school’s well-equipped laboratories for nurturing scientific curiosity and helping students bridge the gap between theory and practical learning.

Acknowledging the DoSE for organising the felicitation programme, Longkumer said the recognition celebrated students’ hard work and achievements while motivating them to aim higher in the future.

Earlier, K Dolie, Headmistress, Govt High School Maova and Imkongsenla Sangtam, Principal, PM Shri Govt Higher Secondary School, Thangjam also shared the best practices of the respective institution.

The programme was attended by Nagaland’s School Education  Advisor and MLA Dr Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, School Education Principal Director Shashank Pratap Singh, School Education & SCERT Commissioner and Secretary Kevileno Angami, School Education Director Razouseyi Vese and others.