A Japanese student speaks during an interactive session held as part of a Japanese delegation’s visit to Nagaland University’s Kohima Campus on February 11. (Photo Courtesy: NUKC)
Kohima, February 12 (MExN): Nagaland University’s Kohima Campus (NUKC) welcomed a delegation from Japan on February 11 and held an interactive session described as a significant step forward in strengthening academic collaboration and people-to-people ties between Nagaland and Japan.
The programme was graced by Prof N Venuh, Pro Vice-Chancellor, NUKC; Atsushi Tsujimoto and the team from the Sasakawa Peace Foundation Japan; Sesino Yhoshu, Director and Producer of TakeOne, along with her team; officials from IDAN; Prof Jano S Liegise Dean, School of Humanities & Education; Metsizolie Medoze, Deputy Registrar; NU’s faculty members, scholars, and students.
Welcoming the gathering particularly the visiting Japanese delegation, Professor Dr Pangersenla Walling Head, Department of Linguistics reaffirmed the University's commitment to international academic engagement.
NU has been actively encouraging students to look beyond national boundaries and embrace global opportunities for learning, skill development, and cultural exposure, she said.
Prof Walling also expressed hope that the visit will not remain a one-time engagement but will evolve into a long-term and meaningful partnership.
Prof Venuh, in his address, highlighted the historical relationship between the Japanese and the Nagas, tracing back to the period of the Second World War.
He recalled memories of how Naga villagers shared their limited rations with Japanese soldiers during that time, reflecting compassion and humanity even in the midst of conflict.
He noted that beyond similarities in facial features, the Japanese and the Nagas share many cultural values and a long-standing sense of mutual respect, which continue to strengthen the bond between the two communities today.
Meanwhile, NU PhD scholar Thejatseizo presented a paper on ritual symbolism in the peace-making traditions of the Nagas, highlighting the cultural and symbolic practices that sustain harmony within Naga society while another PhD scholar Aloka Assumi highlighted the history and development of education in Nagaland, tracing its evolution and key milestones.
The Japanese students introduced themselves, outlined their areas of interest and motivation behind their visit to Nagaland.
This was followed by a group discussion, during which Japanese and Naga students engaged in active exchanges of ideas, informed a press release from NU.
The interaction provided a valuable platform for dialogue, enabling students to share perspectives, learn from one another, and deepen their understanding of each other’s cultures, academic interests, and social contexts, it said.
Pufi, a student of Japanese and Linguistics, moderated the session switching between Japanese and English to facilitate effective communication and smooth interaction, it added.
