Francis Jangkhohao Haokip receives the winner’s cheque of Rs 20,000 from Mr. Nikika, Managing Director of NPSC Mentors, as Principal Dr. Paul Punii looks on during the Freshers’ Day cum INKSPIRE Award ceremony at Salesian College of Higher Education, Dimapur.
Dimapur, July 6 (MExN): The Salesian College of Higher Education (SCHE), Dimapur, marked the Freshers’ Day 2025 with a spirited celebration that welcomed new students while also recognising academic excellence through the INKSPIRE award.
The event began with a ceremonial welcome, as the freshers marched into the college auditorium amidst enthusiastic applause. In his keynote address, Principal Dr. Paul Punii extended a warm welcome to the incoming batch and urged them to embrace college life with perseverance and sincerity. He underscored the importance of hard work, honesty, and building respectful relationships with teachers. “Integrity forms the foundation upon which your character and future are built,” he told the students.
The highlight of the event was the felicitation of Francis Jangkhohao Haokip, who secured the top position in the INKSPIRE: All Nagaland Inter-college Essay Competition 2025. Haokip’s winning essay, titled "25 Years of Hornbill Festival: Critically Examine Its Success and Failures", earned him a cash prize of Rs 20,000. The award was presented by Nikika, Managing Director of NPSC Mentors.
Commending Haokip’s achievement, Nikika encouraged the students to cultivate the mindset of their aspired professions from the outset. “Becoming a doctor, engineer, or administrator is not merely about passing exams,” he said, “it is about developing the corresponding values and character today.”
He further reminded the gathering that success is shaped by attitude and perseverance, and urged students to pursue excellence with purpose and discipline.
The day also featured cultural performances and competitive segments. Among the most anticipated moments was the crowning of Mr. and Ms. Fresher 2025. Paslein Patrick was awarded the Mr. Fresher title for his confidence and charisma, while Aloysia was declared Ms. Fresher, impressing both peers and judges with her grace and presence.
The celebrations concluded with a friendly outdoor volleyball match between the freshers and seniors, fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship among the students.
