Chümoukedima, June 2 (MExN): The North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Chümoukedima, inaugurated the Student Training and Academic Readiness (STAR) Programme 2026 for newly admitted and existing Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students at the Newman Pastoral Centre, Chümoukedima, on June 2.
Organised by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), the programme aims to facilitate students’ transition into professional social work education through academic orientation, personal development opportunities, and exposure to the values and mission of the institution. The theme of the programme is “Ignite the Spark, Inspire the Change.”
Addressing the gathering, NEISSR Principal Dr Fr C P Anto welcomed the students to the institute and highlighted its commitment to academic excellence, Peace and Conflict Transformation, and service to society.
He said NEISSR is dedicated to preparing competent social workers and peacebuilders who can contribute meaningfully to the welfare of individuals, groups, communities and institutions.
Speaking on the significance of social work education, Dr Anto said, “While many academic disciplines primarily prepare students for employment, social work education prepares individuals both for professional careers and for service to humanity.”
He elaborated on the role of social workers in enhancing individual well-being, empowering groups and facilitating sustainable community development.
Drawing from his experiences of working with street children, Dr Anto stressed the importance of understanding social realities through direct engagement with people and communities. He said these experiences inspired the formation of the Peace Channel youth movement and later contributed to the establishment of NEISSR with a vision of promoting peace, social justice and human development through professional social work education.
He further stated that social work is a transformative discipline that shapes not only professional competence but also personal values, leadership and social responsibility. Encouraging students to become agents of positive change, he highlighted the guiding principle of the programme, “Transform Yourself and Transform Society.”
“Lasting social transformation begins with personal growth, self-discipline, ethical values and a commitment to serving others,” he said.
Dr Anto also informed the students that the STAR Programme 2026 would be conducted through participatory learning methodologies, including simulation exercises, experiential learning, group processes, reflective sessions, interactive activities and field-oriented exposure to prepare students for professional social work practice.
The programme will continue until June 6 and will include academic orientation sessions, leadership and personality development activities, skill-building exercises, institutional familiarisation programmes and interactive learning experiences.
The inaugural session was chaired by Peace Channel Project Coordinator James Phanungkhiu. The invocation was led by Dr Toli H Kiba, Head of the Department of Social Work, NEISSR, while the welcome address was delivered by Vice Principal Rev Fr G L Khing. A special musical presentation was offered by Zipise Sangtam of BSW III Semester.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by IQAC Coordinator Dr Barnic Gangmei, who expressed appreciation to all participants, faculty members and coordinators.
