NEISSR conducts series of leadership training seminars

Chümoukedima, January 26 (MExN): North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) organized a transformative series of leadership training programs from January 22-25 in collaboration with Radical Transformative Leadership (RTL), Haggai India, and the All India Catholic University Federation (AICUF). 

A key highlight of the event was a workshop on Radical Transformative Leadership (RTL) led by Sudarshan Rodriguez, CEO and Founder of RTL Works. The workshop engaged MSW 2nd Semester trainees in exploring the essential principles of innovation, inclusivity, and resilience in leadership. Rodriguez led participants through various sessions that encouraged self-reflection on core values and how these values shape leadership styles. 

Discussions on pressing social issues, such as HIV and AIDS, were analyzed through the lens of "Background Conversations and Leadership," exploring how social constructs influence leadership. Rodriguez introduced the 'Conscious Full Spectrum Response Model,' guiding students in designing community projects aimed at enacting meaningful change. Participants also learned about the three types of complaints—Recreational, Expressive, and Action complaints—an essential framework for understanding interpersonal dynamics.

The three-day National Leadership Seminar on Haggai Leadership featured influential resource persons from Haggai India, empowering participants with invaluable leadership insights. Jose Anthony Elengical, Executive Director of Haggai International, shared the foundational vision of Haggai International, which seeks to transform nations through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He introduced the Haggai Model—Select, Equip, Encourage, and Multiply—and explored two leadership models: Traditional and Servant leadership. Elengical emphasized the importance of self-reflection, prayer, and guidance in shaping one's vision.

Dr Sedevi Angami, Director of CIHSR Dimapur, offered insights on Christian leadership, focusing on the ability to influence and inspire others. He highlighted the significance of loving Christ in leadership and encouraged participants to serve as channels of blessings through stewardship. 

Menuo Keditsu of Haggai India emphasiSed the importance of communicating the Gospel to the next generation, recognizing diverse callings. Leo David shared key Biblical principles for evangelism, stressing the urgency and joy of spreading the Gospel. Rev Biswa Ratna Rai of Haggai India facilitated a practical session on life's mission and goal-setting, addressing both secular and Christian perspectives.

The three-day leadership training for Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students, organised in collaboration with the All India Catholic University Federation (AICUF), featured Prof Dr Gladston Ashok Xavier, Former Dean of Students and HoD Social Work at Loyola College, Chennai, as the key resource person. Prof Dr Xavier led interactive sessions focused on societal analysis, self-awareness, positive relationships, and community building. 

Participants were guided through a self-portrait exercise to explore how they see themselves and how others perceive them. His sessions emphasized fostering positive relationships for personal and communal growth, incorporating activities on self-discovery and happiness urging the trainees to be catalyst for change and justice.

Dr Fr CP Anto led a session on innovative approaches to development, addressing societal challenges such as a lack of civic sense and political and religious conflicts. He introduced various key development approaches, including the Charity Level, Rights-Based, Developmental, Capacity Development, Do No Harm, and Strength-Based Approaches. 

During the event, the first-ever AICUF unit at NEISSR and in Nagaland was also constituted. Philip Vaipei was democratically elected as the President, with Geganli Rufina as Vice President, Tsarikumla Christina as Secretary, Kihito P Swu as Joint Secretary, and Richard Sangma as Treasurer. Judith Huidina Assistant Professor and Elizabeth Pojar Assistant Professor were appointed as the unit advisors.

The valedictory programme of the Haggai National Leadership Seminar featured Rev Mosses Murry, Chairman of the Christian Forum Nagaland, as the special guest. In his address, Rev Murry encouraged the Haggai graduates to embrace qualities of truthfulness, faithfulness, and goodness, and to invite the presence of the Holy Spirit into their lives. He emphasised that the seminar was a historic and life-changing event, urging participants to view it as a foundation for spiritual growth, leadership, and community development. 

The programme concluded with the awarding of certificates to 71 participants.