Guests and officials standing in-front of the placard during the inauguration of the Peace Centre (NEISSR & Peace Channel) at St Joseph’s school on August 5. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | August 5
A new building of the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) and Peace Channel organisation, called the Peace Centre was officially inaugurated here at the institute’s new campus located in the premises of St Joseph’s school, Chümoukedima on August 5.
Prof Stephen P Marks, Dean of School of Public Health & Human Development, OP Jindal University, Haryana, speaking during the occasion, shared on the importance of peace centres as places for uniting and bringing together different minds for a common cause. “That the ramparts of peace must be built in the minds of every man, woman and child and that’s what I understand this centre to be all about,” he noted. He also observed that the establishment of peace centres, such as the Peace Centre at NEISSR, in a politically and socially sensitive area, marred by conflict, like the North-East region would go a long way in addressing the special needs of the indigenous people.
At the same time, he noted how indigenous knowledge and culture is essential in addressing the current issues of climate change along with peace building. He called upon governments and its institutions around the world to recognise the democratic rights of their citizens to create peace and prosperity.
Aside from these points, Marks anticipated future collaborations between OP Jindal University and NEISSR in developing peace and human resources through mutual cooperation and exchange of knowledge through an MoU signed between the two institutions.
Guest of Honour, Prof Pradeshi Lal, Vice Chancellor, Nagaland University stated that he visualizes Peace Centre to be a mission that is going to have its impact undiluted in the society in the days to come. He further hoped that institutions such as NEISSR would continue to mould and train future leaders who will bring change to their societies through innovation and peace building.
Various dignitaries, guests and religious leaders from the different communities of Nagaland were also present during the inauguration of the building.
