Tuensang, November 25 (MExN): A centre for imparting various traditional handicrafts skills and transmission of cultural knowledge called the ‘Urban Sochum’ was inaugurated on November 24 at Sao Chang College (SCC) by the Deputy Commissioner of Tuensang L Jamithung Lotha.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC pointed out that Sochum, also known as Morung, is an important institution for the young people to learn various practical skills in different indigenous handicraft activities for both boys and girls apart from the normal academic pursuit. He lamented that in the modern society, many young people do not know even one’s own dialect to read and speak even though they have made so much of advancement in modern education.
The Urban Sochum (Morung) can be a platform where young people can learn the rich cultural values by parttaking in the Sochum activities. He expressed hope that, the Sochum centre will be able to facilitate for the overall personal development of the students and become skillful individuals to cope the complex dimensions of modern society. He encouraged the staffs and Sochum students to preserve the Urban Sochum and make best use of it for enriching knowledge along with the regular academic program.
S Chubasangla Chang, former Principal of SCC, who has initiated for the introduction of Urban Sochum in the college, also spoke on the occasion emphasizing that students need to be given opportunities for developing their innate talents through various Urban Sochum activities.
O Akhum, Urban Sochum Consultant Tuensang spoke on the various programs and activities that are carried out in the Sochum. He said students involved in the Sochum activities will be able to see the changes in one’s life as its activities are very enriching keeping in mind the personality development of every student.
Komayangbou, Tuensang Village Chongpho Khel Council Chairman in his short speech said that, the Urban Sochum activities are very essential for the young people as many have forgotten their own customs and also the traditional values of work culture in our society.
Sochum students will be imparted farming and craft skills, general studies, etc. before and after the college class hours. The inauguration program was chaired by Dr Kenilo Kath, boys’ hostel warden and welcome note was addressed by Dr Iris Odyuo, Member IQAC, folk song was presented by Mulai T, Cultural Secretary of SCC Students Union and friends. Vote of thanks was proposed by SCC Teachers Association General Secretary M Shiu.
The program concluded with a benediction prayer by Sangkam, Head Goanbura, Tuensang Village Chongpho Khel. After the inaugural program, handicraft making skill was demonstrated by Suje of Nokhu village in spear making and Mongko of Tuensang village demonstrated on basket making, a press release from SSC informed.
