Kohima, June 16 (MExN): Considering the lack and the need for alternative learning centre especially for young people, the North East Network (NEN) Resource Centre was set up at Kohima in an effort to bridge the gap.
By providing such a space for diverse stakeholder, especially young people, NEN believes that, it would create wider awareness on economic, social, environmental and political issues; enhance knowledge, and bring about positive thinking and change in our society.
As part of NEN Kohima Resource Centre programme, a film screening and discussion on ‘Food production, distribution and consumption practices: emerging concerns’ was conducted at Baptist High School, Kohima on July 15. Linking global scenario on production process and consumption practices, this discussion focused on ‘Food’ which is one of the most important goods which one cannot live without.
While the modern model of development focuses on making profit through increased consumption as the ultimate goal, it is important to look at an alternative model of development that prioritizes the sustainability of resources and wellbeing of the community and the environment.
Giving more light to this, Rüki a street vendor of Kohima town enlightened the students present with the challenges which she faces in carrying out her daily livelihood. While these groups of workers have ensured quality food for the urban masses at the same time sustaining thousands of food producers’ livelihoods back in the villages, their contribution remains invisible and unrecognized. The challenges of not having a space to vend, insecurities of harassment, poor working conditions and non- recognition are threatening this livelihood, and it is crucial that the Government and the larger Society step in to support, protect and sustain this livelihood.
78 students from Baptist High and Mt. Hermon Higher Secondary School attended the programme. NEN Resource Centre, located at Themezie colony, Kohima intends to continue reaching out to wider audience through monthly activities such as film screenings and discussions, debates and lectures. It also has a library with books and audio visual resources on diverse subjects which can be accessed by any person.
