Kohima, October 28 (MExN): Governor of Nagaland Nikhil Kumar today admitted that young Nagas outside the state are being discriminated but, he said, the doors to addressing the discrimination they face is open. The governor denounced the prejudice and assured his personal involvement to addressing the matter.
The governor was addressing the 21st graduation day of St. Joseph’s College in Jakhama, Kohima, October 28. Governor Kumar was as the chief guest and Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University Professor K Kannan was the guest of honor.
Kumar admitted as a fact that young Nagas outside the state are being discriminated. The governor said he cannot tolerate and allow such prejudices and will personally involve in the matter. He also assured that his office is open for the Naga Students’ Union of Delhi to discuss matters related to the discrimination young Naga citizens face. He said the approach and response of the government of Delhi is “positive”.
“There cannot be discrimination against our boys and girls in the cities,” Governor Kumar said. “I shall not allow it and I have taken up this issue at Delhi.” He assured that ‘for any grievances, my doors are open to all’. Also, the governor was impressed to see the level of discipline in the college and the talent that the student’s showed. He termed these qualities as a ‘matter of pride’ for Nagaland. Kumar said the good result the college produces is because of the ‘best foundation’ laid by the college’s founders.
Nagaland University Vice Chancellor Prof. K Kannan also encouraged the students stating that “Life is a mile road, not meter; go ahead, it won’t take a long time to catch up”. He urged the students to keep going keeping in mind the important elements of life, passion, perseverance and patience. “Without this, you will feel restless”, Kannan explained. He said individual ambition is important but students should also work for the community’s ambition and let the community grow. “Life has to be ethical, means of achieving is more important,” said Kannan.
The first principal of the college, in 1985, Father Francis was also present. Principal St. Joseph College, Jakhama, Dr. Fr. Isaac in his annual report highlighted on the academic performance, students activities, activities of associations, staffs and new initiatives of the college.
The Governor of Nagaland conferred the annual college awards which included the Governor’s Gold Medal for the Best Graduate to Neikepelie Shunyu, BA (English Honors), Chikrophuyo Memorial Award for the best BA student to Mezisalü Resu, BA (Sociology), Avika Achumi Award for Best Commerce student Atonu Kharütso (B. Com. Honors) and Alumni Association Award for the Best General student to Neshe Konyak, BA (General). Ten students who secured first rankings in the university exam were also presented a gift each by the college. The awardees were given a cash prize, a citation, and personal gift and to the Governor’s Golda Medal winners, a gold medal. The college’s Alumni Day will be observed with a friendly basketball match for both men and women to be played between the alumni’s team and college team on October 29.
With a couple of days left to celebrate its 25th year, St. Josephs’ College conferred 207 graduates during the ceremony. Governor’s Gold medal for the best graduate was announced by General KV Krishna Rao, former Governor of Nagaland at the inauguration of the college in the year 1985.
In 1990, Former Governor of Nagaland Dr. M.M Thomas conferred the first Award to Thepfurienyii George. The reputation of the award continued and 2010 Governor’s Award for the best graduate was awarded to Neikepelie Shunyu of B.A Honors (English). The Chikrophuyo Memorial Award was instituted in the year 1994. Likewise, The Avika Achimi Memorial Award was instituted in 1997-98.
